6 Ways to Reduce Soreness From Braces
Posted on January 6, 2023
Going to your local orthodontist for braces is the first step to a new smile and more confidence. Before you can enjoy your new look, you may have to deal with slight discomfort. When you get your braces on, you may feel general soreness in your mouth, and your teeth may be tender to biting pressure for three to five days, according to Forbes. This temporary soreness is normal, and there are ways to reduce it .
1. Over-the-Counter Pain Reliever
The simplest way to reduce soreness after getting braces is to take an over-the-counter pain reliever like ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Follow the directions on the package for how often you can take the medication and how much you should take.
2. Warm Salt Water Rinse
Mixing a teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water can help you feel better as doing so reduces swelling and inflammation. Rinse your mouth with the mixture for 30 seconds to a minute a few times a day, but don’t swallow it.
3. Ice
If you’re dealing with pain and swelling, put a cold compress on your face for five to 10 minutes at a time. You can use a cold pack or a bag of ice wrapped in a towel. Don’t put the ice directly on your skin.
4. Soft Foods
Chewing can aggravate soreness, so it’s best to eat foods that don’t require a lot of chewing. Your local orthodontist recommends options including soups, yogurt, mashed potatoes, and scrambled eggs. Avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods that can damage your braces.
5. Braces Wax
If you have brackets or wires that are poking and irritating your gums or cheeks, put a small amount of braces wax on them. The wax will create a barrier between your braces and your mouth, which can help reduce friction and irritation.
6. Careful Brushing
You must still brush and floss your teeth regularly when you have braces. As you adjust, gently brush your gums, cheeks, and tongue with a soft-bristled toothbrush. You may find it helpful to use an electric toothbrush. Be careful not to put too much pressure on your teeth and gums, which can aggravate soreness.
Soreness from braces is a temporary issue you can easily handle with these simple tips. Visit our local orthodontist at Today’s Orthodontics if you are interested in braces treatment.