Braces often introduce discomfort as the metal brackets and wires rub against the soft tissues of your inner cheeks. This friction can lead to small, painful abrasions or sores, especially common during the initial weeks of treatment or after an adjustment. The irritation occurs because the oral mucosa is adjusting to the constant presence of the orthodontic hardware. Addressing this requires immediate protective measures for comfort and proactive strategies for long-term relief and healing.
Quick Fixes for Immediate Comfort
The most effective immediate solution for physical rubbing is creating a smooth, protective barrier over the offending hardware. Orthodontic wax, a non-toxic material, is specifically designed for this purpose, acting as a temporary cushion. To apply it, wash your hands and thoroughly dry the bracket or wire causing the irritation, as the wax will not adhere to a wet surface.
Pinch off a small, pea-sized piece of the wax and roll it between your fingers to warm and soften it. This malleability allows the wax to conform better to the shape of the brace. Gently press the softened ball directly onto the dry bracket or wire, flattening it slightly to completely cover the sharp or rough edge. This creates a smooth surface that protects your cheek from further friction until the tissue heals or the braces are adjusted.
Alternatives like dental silicone or specialized lip bumpers may be provided by your orthodontist for a longer-lasting barrier. Silicone covers are reusable and more durable than wax, offering a smoother surface that resists breaking down from moisture. These barrier methods are temporary fixes and must be removed before eating or brushing to maintain proper oral hygiene.
Healing Existing Irritation
Once the immediate source of friction is covered, the focus shifts to treating the mouth sore or abrasion that has already developed. Warm salt water rinses are a home remedy that promotes healing and reduces inflammation. The saline solution works as a mild antiseptic, helping to reduce oral bacteria and drawing fluid away from the inflamed tissue.
To prepare the rinse, dissolve about one-half to one teaspoon of salt in one cup of warm water. Swish the solution gently around your mouth for 30 seconds, concentrating it near the irritated area, and then spit it out. Repeating this process several times a day accelerates tissue recovery.
For localized pain management, topical anesthetics can be applied directly to the sore. These gels, often containing benzocaine, temporarily block nerve signals, offering quick relief. The numbing effect is typically short-lived, lasting about 15 minutes.
Long-Term Prevention Strategies
Preventing chronic irritation involves making small adjustments to daily habits and diet. One preventative measure is developing awareness of how your cheeks and tongue rest against the hardware, avoiding habits that push soft tissue against the brackets. This awareness helps the oral mucosa toughen up over time, which naturally reduces sensitivity and the likelihood of sores.
Maintaining impeccable oral hygiene is important, as clean hardware is less abrasive and reduces the chance of irritation or infection. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and focus on cleaning around each bracket and wire junction to remove trapped particles. Dietary choices also play a role in prevention by avoiding hard, crunchy, or sticky foods that can damage the brackets or wires.
Avoiding acidic or spicy foods is beneficial because these irritants can exacerbate existing sores and delay healing. Sticking to a softer diet, especially after adjustments, minimizes the risk of hardware failure and reduces trauma to the mouth’s interior lining. Consistent hydration is another effective strategy, as keeping the mouth moist promotes saliva production, which contains natural antibacterial components that protect the mucosa.
When Orthodontic Adjustment is Needed
While most general irritation can be managed with home care, certain issues with the hardware require professional intervention. You should contact your orthodontist if you notice a bracket has become loose or detached, or if a band around a back molar is loose. A loose component can shift and create a sharp, irritating edge that home remedies cannot permanently fix, potentially delaying treatment progress.
Immediate contact is also necessary if a wire has shifted, broken, or is aggressively poking the cheek, causing severe pain or bleeding. The orthodontist has the tools to safely trim the errant wire or carefully tuck it back into place, restoring comfort and preventing further tissue damage. Do not attempt to clip or bend a wire yourself unless specifically instructed by your care provider, as this can worsen the problem.
Seek prompt attention if the irritation results in a sore that will not heal after several days of home treatment, or if you observe signs of infection like excessive swelling or localized pus. These situations indicate that the mechanical issue needs to be resolved by a professional to ensure your safety and keep your orthodontic treatment on track.