Braces are a common orthodontic treatment designed to straighten teeth and improve oral health. While highly effective, the process often involves some level of discomfort as teeth gradually shift into their new positions. This temporary pain is a normal part of the treatment, and fortunately, several effective strategies exist to help manage it.
Understanding Braces Discomfort
Braces cause discomfort primarily due to the continuous, gentle pressure applied to the teeth. This force initiates a bone remodeling process, which allows teeth to move through the jawbone. This movement can lead to soreness and sensitivity in the teeth and surrounding gums.
Beyond tooth movement, the physical presence of brackets and wires can irritate the soft tissues inside the mouth. The brackets may rub against the inner cheeks, lips, and tongue, potentially causing tenderness or small sores, especially during the initial days after braces are placed or following adjustments. Each adjustment appointment reintroduces pressure as the orthodontist modifies the braces’ configuration, leading to renewed, though often less intense, soreness for a few days.
Immediate Relief for Soreness
Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain. Taking a dose before or after an adjustment appointment may help minimize discomfort.
Orthodontic wax offers a simple yet effective solution for irritation caused by brackets or wires rubbing against soft tissues. A small piece of wax pressed onto the offending part of the brace, creates a smooth barrier, protecting the cheeks, lips, or tongue from irritation and allowing any sores to heal.
Applying a cold compress to the outside of the cheek can also help by numbing the sore area and reducing inflammation. An ice pack applied for 10-15 minutes at a time can ease pain and swelling. Similarly, sipping cold water or consuming cold, soft foods like yogurt or ice cream can provide a soothing effect.
Warm saltwater rinses are beneficial for soothing mouth sores and promoting general healing. Dissolving a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and swishing the solution helps reduce inflammation and can aid in healing any small cuts or irritations within the mouth. Eating soft foods is also advisable, especially after initial placement or adjustments, as this minimizes chewing discomfort. Foods like mashed potatoes, smoothies, yogurt, soups, and scrambled eggs are recommended.
Daily Care for Ongoing Comfort
Maintaining daily habits can significantly contribute to ongoing comfort and help prevent future pain. Selecting appropriate foods is a primary consideration; avoiding hard, sticky, or chewy items helps prevent damage to braces and minimizes irritation. Foods like nuts, popcorn, hard candies, and sticky caramels can dislodge brackets or bend wires, leading to discomfort and potential treatment delays. Instead, focus on softer options such as cooked vegetables, pasta, soft cheeses, and lean meats cut into small pieces.
Proper oral hygiene is also important for preventing discomfort. Brushing teeth thoroughly after every meal, using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste, helps remove food particles that can get trapped in braces and cause irritation or lead to plaque buildup. Flossing daily with the aid of floss threaders or interdental brushes is necessary to clean between teeth and around wires, which can prevent food impaction and subsequent soreness. Rinsing the mouth with water after snacks when brushing is not possible can also help remove loose food debris.
Beyond food choices and cleaning, avoiding habits like nail-biting or chewing on pens can prevent damage to braces and reduce potential pain. Such actions can bend wires or break brackets, which can then cause irritation to the mouth.
When to Contact Your Orthodontist
It is advisable to contact your orthodontist if you experience severe or unmanageable pain that is not alleviated by over-the-counter pain relievers or other home care methods. Persistent pain, especially if it is sharp or localized and lasts for more than a week after initial placement or an adjustment, should also be reported.
Broken wires or brackets are common concerns that require professional intervention. A broken or poking wire can cause significant irritation, cuts, or sores in the mouth. Similarly, a loose or broken bracket can alter treatment progress and lead to discomfort.
Any persistent sores in the mouth that do not heal or worsen should also be evaluated by your orthodontist. If you notice signs of infection, such as swelling, excessive redness, or pus around the gums, it is important to seek immediate attention. Any concerns about the braces themselves or the overall treatment progress, including difficulty eating or speaking, also warrant a call to your orthodontist.