Braces can be uncomfortable to wear. This usually happens after a regular tightening or adjustment and lasts no more than a day or two. Here are a few recommendations to help you feel more at ease.
Use Ice Packs
Ice works just as well on your painful mouth as it does on other wounded regions of your body. Apply a cool ice pack to the sore spot in your mouth if your freshly tightened braces are causing you pain. Ice helps to relieve pain by reducing inflammation and swelling.
Take Cold Foods
Popsicles and ice cream, like ice packs, not only taste good but may also help relieve the discomfort by numbing your mouth and lowering inflammation. Brush your teeth after consuming any sweet to avoid tooth decay. You can also get relief by sucking on an ice cube or sipping cooled water.
Gaggle Some Salt Water
As the teeth adjust to the tighter wires, blisters might form along the gums and cheeks. Rinsing your mouth with saltwater might help you feel better and decrease inflammation. Swishing with a warm saltwater solution for one minute will help decrease infection and relieve discomfort caused by brace irritation.
Orthodontic Wax
This is one of the most routine and simple techniques to shield your lips and tongue from your braces’ rough edges. Your orthodontist can supply soft orthodontic wax put over the braces as needed to prevent and relieve pain caused by metal wires and brackets. Break off a piece and apply it to the hurting region. The wax will act as a shield between your lips and the braces. Just remember to remove the wax before brushing your teeth.
Switch Up Your Diet
When your braces are tightened, your teeth and gums may become sensitive, making eating difficult. As a result, it’s advisable to avoid hard, crunchy meals like chips and raw veggies. Instead, pick soft meals and drinks that don’t need much chewing, such as mac and cheese, soups, smoothies, and yogurt. You will be able to resume regular eating habits after your teeth have adjusted and the discomfort has passed.
Take Some Pain Relief Medicine
Over-the-counter pain drugs, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can help ease pain and decrease inflammation if the treatments above fail to provide relief. Patients should always consult their doctor first and then follow the dose directions.
If discomfort is present, oral anesthetics such as Orajel can be given directly to the teeth and gums using a cotton swab or finger. Orajel is a gel that helps desensitize the region of your mouth that is suffering due to moving teeth. This kind of pain alleviation is beneficial before going to bed or while you’re trying to sleep.
Allow Yourself To Adjust
Finally, keep in mind that brace discomfort will ultimately subside as your teeth adjust to the new braces and newly adjusted braces. While it is unpleasant, the discomfort you are feeling is typical as your teeth move toward their final, ideal position. You will most likely be uncomfortable for a few days, but the ultimate result will be well worth it: a gorgeous, perfectly aligned grin.
Parents should also urge their kids to maintain good oral hygiene, even if it is painful, because it is especially vital to keep teeth and gums clean when wearing braces.
Beauty Smile Orthodontics specializes in braces for adults and children, alike. If you are interested in seeing how we can help you to achieve a happy and healthy smile, contact us today.