While you might be very excited for your future smile to be improved, your braces can sometimes come with discomfort, especially when they are newly placed or for a few days after adjustments.
Thankfully, there are natural and straightforward methods to ease orthodontic pain and help you stay comfortable as you progress through treatment.
What Causes Orthodontic Pain?
Orthodontic discomfort can result from several reasons, such as the pressure applied to teeth during adjustments or the irritation caused by brackets and wires. It’s normal to feel some soreness as the teeth gradually shift into alignment. This discomfort can range from mild and temporary to more noticeable during the first few days after adjustments.
By understanding these causes, you can better manage the discomfort without resorting to medications.
5 Natural Ways to Manage Orthodontic Pain
As you consider the specific cause of your orthodontic pain, here are some easy and natural ways to manage it.
Use Orthodontic Wax
Brackets and wires are hard and angular. They can sometimes irritate the soft tissues inside your mouth, leading to small sores or tenderness. The good news is that your mouth will get used to having hardware in it, but there can be times when it is uncomfortable, particularly when you start treatment or end up with a broken wire or bracket.
Orthodontic wax is a simple but highly effective tool to create relief from irritation. It acts as a protective physical barrier, preventing the brackets or wires from rubbing against your cheeks, lips, or gums. Simply take a small piece of orthodontic wax and press the wax gently over the bracket or wire that’s causing discomfort. Replace the wax daily or whenever it becomes worn.
Eat Softer Foods
After you first get your braces or after an orthodontic adjustment, your teeth may feel more sensitive. Eating hard or crunchy foods can increase discomfort, so opting for softer foods is a great way to reduce pain.
We suggest trying some of these options:
- Soups and stews.
- Cooked vegetables, mashed potatoes, or oatmeal.
- Soft fruits like bananas or mangos.
- Dairy products like yogurt, soft cheeses, or smoothies.
- Purees or blended foods like applesauce and shakes.
Avoid hard candies, nuts, or any sticky foods that may apply additional pressure to your teeth or damage your braces.
Keep Your Teeth Clean and Free of Debris
Food particles stuck between your braces or teeth can exacerbate sensitivity or discomfort, especially during chewing. By ensuring teeth are clean and free of debris, you can minimize irritation.
In addition to gently brushing with your soft-bristled toothbrush, try an interdental brush or water flosser to clean hard-to-reach areas around brackets and wires. Carry floss picks with you in case you need to remove pesky debris on the go. Maintaining excellent oral hygiene not only reduces discomfort but also helps prevent other issues, like plaque buildup or cavities.
Rinse with Salt Water
A warm salt water rinse is an age-old remedy for soothing oral pain and reducing inflammation. Salt water can also promote healing if your gums or soft tissues are irritated.
Mix approximately ½ to 1 teaspoon of salt into a cup of warm water. Swish the solution gently around your mouth for 30 seconds. Repeat up to 5 times per day as needed. A salt water rinse is an easy and natural way to cleanse the mouth and soothe sensitive areas.
Try a Cold Compress
For more significant pain, a cold compress can help reduce swelling and numb soreness. It works by minimizing blood flow to the affected area, which can ease the pain significantly.
Choose a soft ice pack (or, in a pinch, a bag of frozen vegetables). Wrap it in a thin cloth to prevent injury from cold. Apply the compress to the outside of your mouth or cheek near the sore area and hold it in place for 10–15 minutes, then remove it for a few minutes before reapplying.
Contact Your Orthodontist
If you’re still experiencing persistent discomfort or need advice about your orthodontic treatment, our team is here to help. Schedule an appointment, or reach out any time between appointments for guidance and support throughout your braces treatment.
