IRRITATION

While wearing braces can cause mild discomfort, the pain is normal and only temporary. The good news is that there are many simple ways to help ease the pain. Here are a few ways to manage pain and discomfort caused by braces.

Alleviating Discomfort

• USE ICE PACKS.

  
  Ice works the same for your aching mouth as it does for other injured parts of your body. If your newly tightened braces are causing soreness in your mouth, apply a cold ice pack to the area of discomfort. Ice decreases inflammation and swelling to help reduce pain.



• REACH FOR COLD FOODS AND DRINKS.

  
  Similar to ice packs, popsicles and ice cream not only taste delicious, but can help ease pain by numbing your mouth and reducing inflammation. Always brush after eating any sugary treats to prevent decay. You can also simply suck on an ice cube or sip iced water for relief.



• SWISH WITH SALT WATER.

  
  Sometimes sores can develop along the gums and cheeks as they adapt to tightened wires. Swishing for one minute with a warm salt-water solution will help reduce infection and alleviate soreness caused by irritation from the braces.



• APPLY ORTHODONTIC WAX.

  
  Some patients experience irritation on the inner cheeks, lips and gums when wearing braces. To prevent and alleviate pain caused by metal wires and brackets, your orthodontist can provide soft, orthodontic wax that is applied over the braces as needed.



• MODIFY YOUR DIET.

  
  When you have your braces tightened, your teeth and gums may be sensitive, which makes eating food painful. For this reason, it is best to avoid hard, crunchy foods such as chips and raw vegetables. Instead, choose soft foods and liquids, like mashed potatoes, soups, smoothies and yogurt, which don’t require a lot of chewing. Once your teeth have adjusted and pain has subsided, you will be able to resume normal eating habits as usual.