Braces are an effective and reliable method for improving your smile’s health. Many braces systems use brackets, archwires, and elastic bands to shift your teeth into the desired position. During treatment, your orthodontist will periodically adjust your wires to help align your teeth.
Patients report that these adjustments can cause temporary tenderness in the teeth and gums. Fortunately, we have some solutions to manage any discomfort you may feel. Schedule a free consultation today!
Keep reading to learn more about what helps relieve braces pain.
What causes braces pain?
Today’s braces use advanced technology with components that are smaller, lighter, and more discreet than ever. However, there is still the chance you will experience tenderness when your braces are first placed and after adjustments.
Braces work by applying gentle pressure to your teeth that breaks down the tiny cells in your gums and bone tissue. This process may cause some soreness. Fortunately, the cells rebuild once your teeth shift into position, and any temporary discomfort should disappear.
Your orthodontist will only make small adjustments to ensure the alignment process is gradual and as comfortable as possible.
How to reduce braces pain
The experienced Hess Orthodontics team has advice for dealing with new braces pain, including:
Use a Dental Pain Eraser™
Synapse’s Dental Pain Eraser uses Advanced Pulsewave Technology™ to relieve oral pain. This incredible invention delivers immediate relief for people experiencing braces pain without any side effects. Hess Orthodontics is the exclusive provider of the Dental Pain Eraser for the Tampa Bay area.
Use oral anesthetics
Rubbing oral anesthetic gels on your teeth and gum can provide relief. You can use a cotton swab or your finger to apply the gels to the areas with the most discomfort.
Take pain medication
Over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can ease soreness. Taking pain relievers before your appointment can also prevent discomfort.
Eat soft foods
Eating soft foods after getting your braces and adjustments can help reduce pain. Soft foods include:
- Yogurt
- Ice cream
- Smoothies
- Pudding
- Soup
Use orthodontic wax
Orthodontic wax protects your lips and cheeks from irritation. Apply a pea-sized ball of wax to the bracket or section of braces rubbing your mouth. Some people use sugar-free gum for a similar effect.
Warm saltwater rinse
You can mix one teaspoon of salt into eight ounces of lukewarm water and swish the solution to provide some comfort. Do not swallow the saltwater.
Use a heating pad
Heating pads and warm washcloths increase circulation to the area, which harnesses healing effects.
Massage your gums
A gum massage can also increase circulation to a sore area and reduce soreness. Use one or two fingers to rub in a circular motion until the tenderness decreases.
Practice good dental hygiene
Brushing, flossing, and rinsing twice a day — and after eating — clears away food particles and bacteria that collect around your brackets and wires. This will help prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and other problems caused by poor hygiene.
Hess Orthodontics is here to help with any braces pain questions
Braces help align your teeth and improve your appearance and health. That said, there can be moments when your teeth adjust to the pressure from the wires and bands. Remember that the soreness is temporary and manageable.
For more support, call us or schedule an appointment. We have been helping patients get the most from their braces for years and we can’t wait to help you!