Starting orthodontic treatment often requires an adjustment period for the tissues inside the mouth. Braces rubbing against the inner cheek or lips is a common discomfort, especially in the first few weeks after placement or following wire adjustments. This irritation arises from the friction created when soft, moist mucosal tissue repeatedly contacts the rigid surfaces of brackets and archwires. The mouth’s lining, known as the oral mucosa, is not accustomed to this constant abrasion, leading to soreness, redness, and sometimes small ulcers. Creating a smooth barrier is the first line of defense against this friction-induced irritation.
Immediate Application of Protective Barriers
Creating a physical shield between the abrasive orthodontic hardware and the cheek tissue offers the quickest path to relief. Orthodontic wax is the most widely available temporary solution for smoothing sharp edges or protruding components. To apply the wax, thoroughly wash your hands and isolate the specific bracket or wire causing the irritation.
The application site on the braces must be completely dry, as moisture prevents the wax from adhering securely. Take a small, pea-sized piece of wax and roll it between your fingers to warm it up, making it soft and pliable. Press the rolled wax firmly over the offending bracket or wire, ensuring it covers the entire surface and forms a smooth dome shape.
The wax acts as a temporary buffer, allowing irritated tissue time to rest and begin healing beneath the smooth surface. Wax must be reapplied after eating or when it dislodges. Although non-toxic, it is not meant to be swallowed in large amounts. A fresh application is necessary several times a day to maintain continuous protection.
Silicone products offer an alternative to traditional orthodontic wax, often providing a longer-lasting barrier. These materials are sold as strips or pre-formed shapes that adhere to the braces and are sometimes more resistant to moisture and movement. Regardless of the material, the primary mechanism remains the same: eliminating the high-friction point caused by the surfaces. These barriers should be used consistently until the inner cheek tissue toughens slightly, a process known as mucosal conditioning.
Healing Existing Tissue Irritation
Once a protective barrier is in place to prevent further mechanical damage, the focus shifts to promoting the recovery of the irritated oral mucosa. Saltwater rinsing is a simple method for reducing inflammation and maintaining cleanliness around sore areas. A mixture of one teaspoon of non-iodized salt dissolved in eight ounces of warm water creates a mild saline solution.
Rinsing the mouth with this warm solution for thirty to sixty seconds, three to four times a day, helps draw fluid away from inflamed tissues, reducing swelling. The saline solution also acts as a gentle cleanser, flushing out food debris and bacteria that could impede the healing process of ulcers or abrasions. This practice supports the body’s natural restorative functions.
For temporary pain relief associated with mouth sores, over-the-counter topical anesthetics or protective gels can be applied directly to the ulcerated areas. Products containing ingredients like benzocaine provide localized numbing, which is helpful before meals or bedtime. Use these sparingly, focusing on the immediate site of the irritation rather than widespread application.
Dietary adjustments are beneficial during the healing phase to avoid re-irritating sensitive tissue. Temporarily avoiding highly acidic foods, such as citrus fruits and tomatoes, or spicy foods can significantly reduce discomfort. Crunchy or hard foods that might scrape against the braces or the cheek lining should also be minimized until the oral sores have resolved.
When Professional Adjustment is Necessary
While temporary barriers and home care manage surface friction, certain structural issues require intervention from an orthodontic professional. The most common problem involves a protruding archwire, which occurs as teeth shift and the excess wire begins to poke the cheek. If the wire cannot be tucked away with a cotton swab or covered with wax, the orthodontist needs to clip or bend it.
Another instance requiring professional attention is a loose or broken bracket, band, or ligature. A detached piece of hardware exposes sharp metal edges that wax cannot cover or that repeatedly tear through the protective barrier. Using the braces with a broken component can cause significant tissue damage and compromise the treatment plan.
If pain or deep ulceration persists for more than a week despite consistent use of protective wax and saltwater rinsing, an urgent appointment is warranted. Lingering, severe irritation suggests the underlying mechanical issue has not been addressed by temporary measures. Contact the orthodontic office promptly to schedule an assessment and necessary repair or adjustment, ensuring the hardware is smooth and correctly positioned.