Orthodontic treatment often introduces temporary pain and soreness, especially following initial placement or wire adjustments. This discomfort can intensify at night when the body is still and there are fewer distractions, making restful sleep difficult. By implementing a targeted strategy before bed, you can significantly reduce the pressure and irritation caused by the shifting teeth and the braces themselves. This involves a combination of pharmaceutical and non-pharmaceutical interventions.
Immediate Pain Management Before Bed
Strategically timing over-the-counter pain medication makes a substantial difference in managing nighttime discomfort. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, are often recommended because they reduce inflammation in the periodontal ligaments surrounding the teeth. Taking the appropriate dosage 30 to 60 minutes before you plan to fall asleep allows the medication to reach peak effectiveness during the initial hours of rest.
Complementing oral medication with cold therapy provides localized, acute relief right before you settle down. Apply a cold compress or an ice pack wrapped in a thin cloth to the outside of your jaw and cheeks for about 10 to 15 minutes. This helps to constrict blood vessels and temporarily numb the area, reducing swelling. For a more internal cooling sensation, sucking on ice chips or drinking cold water can also help soothe tender gums and tissues.
Preventing Nighttime Irritation
Physical irritations from metal hardware, such as brackets and wires rubbing against sensitive inner cheeks and lips, commonly disrupt sleep. Orthodontic wax is the primary tool for creating a smooth, protective barrier over these rough surfaces during the night. To apply it effectively, roll a small, pea-sized piece of the non-toxic wax between your fingers to warm and soften it. Ensure the area is completely dry before pressing the softened wax firmly onto the spot causing irritation, covering the sharp edge entirely.
Before applying wax, check the braces for any loose or poking wires that may have shifted during the day. If a thin wire is poking the cheek or gum, gently push it flat against the tooth using the clean eraser end of a pencil or a cotton swab. Consuming only soft foods for dinner and avoiding anything hard or crunchy minimizes strain on the teeth. This prevents additional soreness that could be exacerbated by the pressure of the braces overnight.
Adjusting Sleeping Position for Comfort
The way you position your head and face while sleeping directly impacts the pressure exerted on your oral tissues. Sleeping on your back, known as the supine position, is the most effective way to avoid pain, as it prevents the pillow from pressing directly against the cheeks and jaws. Avoiding side or stomach sleeping is recommended, as these positions can push the hardware into the cheek. This often exacerbates existing sores or creates new pressure points.
To maintain the supine position and provide additional support, consider using a soft, supportive pillow that cradles the head and neck. Some individuals find that slightly elevating the head with an extra pillow helps to reduce blood flow to the mouth, which may lessen the sensation of throbbing pain. Maintaining a stable, neutral head and jaw position throughout the night is the goal, as it allows any irritated areas to heal without the constant disruption of external pressure from your bedding.