Pain Relief after Braces

It is normal for you to feel discomfort and pain after the orthodontist puts on your braces or even after every adjustment when your wires are tightened. There are ways to get relief from the pain and discomfort with these following tips:

1. Oral anaesthetics

A straightforward way for pain relief is to rub an oral anaesthetic like Orajel directly on the sensitive teeth and gums. Use either a cotton swab or your finger to apply it. This will desensitize your teeth and gums, so the discomfort of shifting teeth is not so acute.

2. Over-the-counter pain medicine

Another option is to take over-the-counter pain medicine. If you always feel some discomfort after an orthodontic appointment, consider taking the medicine an hour before your appointment. You will feel less pain and discomfort during and after your appointment this way.

Make sure you read the instructions on the medicine and follow the dosage instructions carefully. Pain medicine is not meant to be used on a consistent basis, so if you are still feeling pain and discomfort after a couple of days, contact your clinic immediately.

3. An ice pack

Cold temperatures help to reduce inflammation and numb your mouth, so you will not feel the pain as much. If you have an ice pack handy, apply the ice pack to the outside of your mouth for pain relief.

4. Cold ice water

A simple glass of cold ice water can also do the trick. After your orthodontic appointment, sip on a cold glass of ice water. This provides numbing effects to relieve some of the pain and discomfort.

5. Soft foods

Traditional wire braces, come with a lot of restrictions, especially when it comes to eating. You should avoid hard candy, gum, and hard to chew foods with braces on. Also, avoid crunchy foods right after your braces are put on and after each tightening. Preferably, stick to soft foods like soups, mashed potatoes. and cereal.

Even if you chose Invisalign and do not have to worry about wire straightening, you will still require an adjustment period with each new set of aligners. During these adjustment periods, be kind to your mouth and stick to softer foods.

6. Orthodontic wax

You will most likely get orthodontic wax which is a special wax that protects the inside of your lips, cheeks, and gums from the brackets of the braces. The wax creates a barrier that keeps the sharp ends of the brackets from irritating your mouth.

Follow the instructions given to use orthodontic wax. Fold the wax over the bracket that is causing the irritation. It is a nontoxic wax, so you do not have to worry about accidentally swallowing some but do remember to take it off before brushing your teeth. Reapply the wax after brushing your teeth and after meals.

7. A warm rinse

While cold temperatures certainly help with pain relief, a warm saltwater rinse can help too. Gurgling with warm salt water can help heal any sores or cuts you might have in your mouth and on your gums from the braces.

8. A gum massage

Massage your gums for pain relief is a simple to do. All you need to do is gently rub your gums in a circular fashion with one of your fingers. For the full effect, rub your gums with a block of ice before massaging them. Only do this long enough to relax your swollen gums.

9. Good dental hygiene

How you take care of your teeth and braces can also make a difference in how much pain and discomfort you have. The most important thing to remember is to keep both your teeth and braces clean to ward off tooth decay and gum inflammation. Food will get stuck on the brackets and wires, so you also need to clean them thoroughly. Brush, floss, and use mouth wash to ensure that you get rid of all the food particles leftover.

10. Need to be patient

Probably the most important tip to get through this adjustment period is to be patient. Motivate yourself with an overall goal in mind: a healthier, beautiful smile. The pain and discomfort will only last a few days, but your new smile is permanent so you should take proper care of it.

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