Oral irritation and small cuts from braces are common during orthodontic treatment. They occur as the mouth adjusts or due to friction from brackets and wires against soft tissues, causing discomfort.
Quick Relief for Oral Sores
Immediate measures can alleviate pain and discomfort from oral sores. Orthodontic wax provides a protective barrier between brace components and delicate oral tissues. To apply, clean your hands and the area, pinch a pea-sized piece of wax, roll it into a ball, and flatten it over the irritating bracket or wire. Ensure the area is dry for better adhesion. This cushioning reduces friction and allows the irritated spot to begin healing.
A warm saline (saltwater) rinse can soothe irritation and promote healing by acting as an antiseptic. Dissolve one tablespoon of salt in one cup (250 mL) of warm water and swish for 30 seconds before spitting it out. Repeat several times daily. Over-the-counter topical oral anesthetics, such as those containing benzocaine, provide temporary numbing relief when applied directly to painful sores.
Strategies for Healing
Beyond immediate relief, specific practices promote the healing of oral cuts. Maintain gentle oral hygiene to prevent further irritation and infection. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to carefully clean around brackets and wires, removing food particles and plaque.
Dietary adjustments also support healing. Consuming soft foods minimizes pressure and chewing effort on sore areas. Examples include scrambled eggs, mashed potatoes, yogurt, applesauce, and smoothies. Avoid irritants like spicy, acidic, crunchy, or sticky foods, as these can sting existing sores or damage braces. Foods such as raw carrots, nuts, chips, and hard candies should be avoided.
Natural aids can also assist healing. Vitamin E oil, applied topically by cutting open a capsule and squeezing the oil onto the sore, may reduce healing time by coating the tissue. This vitamin supports cell regeneration and reduces inflammation. Aloe vera gel can also be applied directly to the affected area to create a protective barrier, soothe irritation, and promote healing.
Preventing Future Irritation
Minimizing new cuts and irritation is key to managing braces discomfort. Regular and proper use of orthodontic wax is a primary preventive measure. Apply wax over any bracket or wire that consistently rubs against your cheek, lip, or tongue to create a smooth surface and prevent sores from forming.
Careful eating habits are also important for prevention. Cutting food into smaller, bite-sized pieces reduces strain on your braces and teeth, making chewing easier and less likely to cause irritation or damage. Avoid hard, sticky, or chewy foods that can get trapped in or bend wires, such as popcorn, nuts, caramels, and gum.
Regularly check your braces for loose or poking wires. If a wire shifts or protrudes, it can irritate soft tissues. Temporary fixes like pushing a wire or covering it with wax can help, but professional adjustment is often needed. Maintain adequate hydration by drinking plenty of water. This keeps the mouth moist, cleanses food particles, and prevents dry mouth that might exacerbate irritation.
When to Contact Your Orthodontist
While minor irritations can be managed at home, certain situations warrant professional orthodontic attention. Seek evaluation for persistent pain not relieved by home remedies or over-the-counter options. Severe cuts or injuries, especially those with significant bleeding or depth, require immediate assessment.
Signs of infection, such as swelling, pus, or fever, indicate a need for prompt consultation. Contact your orthodontist if a wire breaks, becomes severely bent, or protrudes in a way that cannot be managed with wax, causing significant discomfort or difficulty eating/speaking. These issues affect treatment progress and require professional repair.