Getting braces can be an exciting step toward achieving a straighter smile and improved oral health, but it’s also true that the process can come with some discomfort. Whether you’re just getting braces for the first time or you’ve had them for a while, it’s common to experience soreness in the first few days following your appointment, as well as mild discomfort throughout your treatment. Fortunately, there are a variety of ways to manage braces discomfort effectively, making your orthodontic experience smoother and more manageable. In this blog, we’ll cover some helpful tips and tricks for managing the discomfort that comes with braces.
1. Expect Some Soreness After Getting Braces
When you first get your braces, your mouth will need to adjust to the new brackets, wires, and bands. This adjustment can lead to soreness or sensitivity in the teeth and gums. For many people, the discomfort peaks within the first 24-48 hours and then gradually decreases over the next few days.
What You Can Do:
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers: Medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help relieve the pain during the first few days. Always follow the recommended dosage on the label or as advised by your orthodontist.
- Use a cold compress: If your cheeks are sore or swollen from the braces, a cold compress can provide relief. Apply it to the outside of your cheek for 10-15 minutes at a time.
- Eat soft foods: Foods like mashed potatoes, yogurt, and soup are gentle on your teeth and gums while they heal. Avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods that can aggravate soreness.
2. Wax for Braces: A Simple and Effective Solution
Braces often have small components like wires or brackets that can rub against the inside of your lips or cheeks. This can cause irritation or even painful sores. Fortunately, orthodontic wax is a simple solution to this issue.
What You Can Do:
- Apply orthodontic wax: When you notice a spot where your braces are irritating the inside of your mouth, take a small piece of orthodontic wax and roll it into a ball. Flatten the ball and place it over the bracket or wire causing discomfort. This provides a smooth surface that helps protect your mouth from further irritation.
- Carry wax with you: Keep a small container of wax in your bag or pocket for quick access if you’re away from home and experience any discomfort.
3. Be Careful with What You Eat
While wearing braces, it’s important to be mindful of what you eat, especially in the first few days when your teeth may be extra sensitive. Foods that are hard, sticky, or chewy can cause discomfort and may even damage your braces.
What You Can Do:
- Avoid hard foods: Foods like popcorn, nuts, and hard candy can cause the brackets or wires to break. Stick to soft foods such as pasta, eggs, or smoothies in the initial days after getting your braces.
- Steer clear of sticky foods: Sticky foods, like caramel, gum, and chewy candy, can get stuck in your braces and create discomfort. These can also increase the risk of cavities, as food particles become trapped in the braces.
- Cut your food into smaller pieces: If you do eat harder foods, like apples or carrots, cut them into small pieces to make chewing easier and more comfortable.
4. Use Saltwater Rinses to Soothe Irritation
Rinsing your mouth with warm saltwater can help reduce irritation from your braces. Saltwater is a natural antiseptic and can soothe swollen gums, reduce inflammation, and promote healing.
What You Can Do:
- Gargle with saltwater: Mix one teaspoon of salt in eight ounces of warm water. Swish the saltwater around in your mouth for 30 seconds to help alleviate irritation.
- Repeat the rinse: You can repeat this process a few times a day, especially after meals or if you feel discomfort from braces.
5. Orthodontic Silicone for Additional Comfort
In addition to orthodontic wax, another option for reducing discomfort is orthodontic silicone. This silicone material is designed to cushion and protect your gums from the sharp edges of brackets and wires, making it a great alternative or supplement to wax.
What You Can Do:
- Use silicone covers: Like wax, silicone covers can be placed on the parts of the braces that irritate your mouth. Silicone tends to be more flexible than wax and can stay in place longer, which may be more convenient for some people.
6. Attend Regular Check-Ups and Adjustments
Braces discomfort is often linked to the adjustments made during your regular orthodontic visits. Every time your orthodontist tightens your braces or changes the wires, your teeth may feel sore for a few days.
What You Can Do:
- Plan for adjustments: Schedule orthodontic visits during times when you don’t have too many activities or events coming up, as it may take a day or two for the discomfort to subside after an adjustment.
- Follow your orthodontist’s advice: If the discomfort lasts for more than a few days or feels unusually intense, don’t hesitate to contact your orthodontist. They can adjust your braces to ensure the treatment is progressing smoothly.
7. Stay Consistent with Oral Hygiene
While you may feel tempted to neglect brushing or flossing due to the discomfort of braces, maintaining good oral hygiene is essential for preventing further issues like cavities or gum disease. Plus, poor oral hygiene can exacerbate discomfort caused by plaque buildup.
What You Can Do:
- Brush and floss regularly: Be sure to brush your teeth after every meal and floss at least once a day to remove food particles and plaque. Using a soft-bristled toothbrush can help prevent irritation.
- Use a water flosser: A water flosser can be a helpful tool for cleaning around braces, especially if you’re having trouble with traditional floss.
8. Understand That the Discomfort Will Subside
It’s important to remember that any discomfort you experience with braces is temporary. Over time, your mouth will adjust to the braces, and the pain will lessen. Be patient with the process, and trust that your efforts will pay off with a beautiful, straight smile.
Trust Westfall Orthodontics for a Comfortable Braces Experience
Braces discomfort is a common part of the orthodontic journey, but with the right strategies, you can manage it effectively. From using wax to eating soft foods and attending regular check-ups, there are many ways to make the experience smoother. If you have any questions or concerns about managing discomfort or need personalized advice, don’t hesitate to contact Westfall Orthodontics, serving patients in Abingdon, VA, Richlands, VA, and Bristol, VA. Our team is here to guide you every step of the way toward achieving a healthy, beautiful smile. If you’re looking for expert care, consider consulting a Richlands orthodontist for the support and treatment you need.