Braces are a common and effective orthodontic treatment to align teeth and improve oral health. While creating a straighter smile, it is normal to experience some discomfort, particularly after initial placement or adjustments. This temporary soreness is natural as teeth shift into new positions. Understanding and managing this discomfort can make the orthodontic journey more comfortable.
Immediate Comfort Strategies
Several immediate strategies can help alleviate discomfort. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen, can manage the pain. Ibuprofen is another option, though some orthodontists suggest acetaminophen as it may interfere less with tooth movement. Always follow dosage instructions carefully.
Orthodontic wax provides a simple and effective solution for irritation caused by brackets or wires rubbing against soft tissues. To apply it, take a small, pea-sized piece of wax, roll it into a ball, and press it firmly over the irritating part of the brace to create a smooth barrier. This protects the cheeks, lips, and tongue from sharp edges. Ensure hands are clean and the area on the brace is dry for best adhesion.
Warm saltwater rinses can soothe sore gums and mouth sores. Dissolve about half a teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water and swish the solution gently in the mouth for 30 seconds before spitting it out. This helps reduce inflammation, clean the area, and promote healing of minor cuts or abrasions. Applying a cold compress or ice pack to the jaw can help numb soreness and reduce inflammation, particularly after adjustments. Eating cold foods like ice cream, yogurt, or popsicles can also provide temporary numbing relief.
Minimizing Ongoing Discomfort
Beyond immediate relief, certain practices can help reduce soreness and prevent future irritation. Opting for soft foods is highly recommended, especially after adjustments when teeth may be particularly sensitive. Foods such as mashed potatoes, yogurt, smoothies, soups, and scrambled eggs are gentle on the braces and sensitive teeth. Conversely, it is advisable to avoid hard, sticky, or crunchy foods like nuts, popcorn, hard candies, and tough breads, as these can damage braces or worsen discomfort.
Maintaining excellent oral hygiene is fundamental to preventing gum inflammation and tooth sensitivity. Regular and thorough cleaning helps remove food particles and plaque that can accumulate around braces, which might otherwise lead to increased discomfort. Brushing at least twice a day, ideally after every meal, for at least two minutes.
Using a soft-bristled toothbrush is advisable to clean around brackets and wires effectively without causing irritation to the gums or damaging the appliance. Position the toothbrush bristles at a 45-degree angle to the gumline and use small circular motions, cleaning all surfaces of the teeth, including around the brackets and wires. Flossing daily with a floss threader or specialized orthodontic floss is also important to reach between teeth and under wires, removing trapped food debris and plaque that a toothbrush cannot access. Gentle care during brushing and flossing avoids added irritation to the mouth tissues and braces.
Knowing When to Seek Professional Help
While some discomfort is a normal part of orthodontic treatment, certain situations warrant contacting an orthodontist. Persistent or severe pain that does not improve with home remedies, or pain accompanied by bleeding, indicates a need for professional evaluation. This type of pain might signal an underlying issue that requires immediate attention.
Broken wires or brackets are also reasons to seek professional help. A broken wire can poke into the cheek, tongue, or gums, causing significant irritation or injury. While orthodontic wax can offer temporary relief by covering sharp edges, a professional repair is essential to ensure the braces continue to function correctly and prevent further discomfort or delayed treatment. Similarly, if mouth sores worsen, do not heal, or show signs of infection such as redness, swelling, or pus, an orthodontist should be consulted. These symptoms could indicate a more serious issue requiring medical intervention.
Any feeling that the braces are not functioning correctly, or if unusual issues arise, should prompt a call to the orthodontist. This includes loose bands or brackets that are not causing pain but seem out of place, or if the overall alignment process appears to be abnormal. Prompt communication with the orthodontic team ensures that any potential problems are addressed swiftly, maintaining the effectiveness and safety of the treatment.