How To Stop Braces Pain

Just got your braces tightened? That familiar throbbing is a sign they're doing their job, but let's face it, braces pain can be a real drag. Nobody enjoys that constant ache, the sensitivity to hot and cold, or the sharp irritation against your cheeks. Navigating daily life, from eating your favorite foods to simply talking comfortably, can feel like an uphill battle when your mouth is rebelling against its new hardware.

Dealing with braces pain effectively is crucial for a positive orthodontic experience. Unmanaged discomfort can lead to decreased oral hygiene, as brushing and flossing become more challenging. It can also affect your willingness to cooperate with treatment, potentially prolonging the time you need to wear braces. Fortunately, there are numerous strategies and remedies you can use to alleviate the pain and stay on track with your orthodontic goals.

What can I do to relieve braces pain?

How can I quickly relieve braces pain after tightening?

The quickest ways to relieve braces pain after tightening involve over-the-counter pain relievers, cold compresses, and soft foods. An analgesic like ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or acetaminophen (Tylenol) taken as directed can reduce inflammation and discomfort. Applying a cold compress or ice pack to your cheeks for 15-20 minutes at a time can also numb the area and alleviate pain. Sticking to soft foods that require minimal chewing will prevent further irritation of sensitive teeth and gums.

After a tightening appointment, the pressure from your braces is the primary cause of discomfort. Pain relievers work by blocking pain signals and reducing inflammation at the source. It's crucial to follow the dosage instructions on the medication label and consult with your orthodontist or doctor if you have any concerns about potential interactions with other medications you are taking. Beyond medication and cold compresses, consider rinsing your mouth with warm salt water. Mix about a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and swish it gently around your mouth for 30 seconds, then spit it out. This can help soothe irritated gums and reduce inflammation. You can repeat this several times a day. Many orthodontists also recommend using orthodontic wax to create a barrier between your braces and the soft tissues of your mouth. This can prevent rubbing and irritation, especially if you have wires or brackets that are poking or causing sores. Apply a small amount of wax to the problematic area as needed. Remember, the pain is usually temporary and will subside within a few days. If the pain is severe or persists for more than a week, contact your orthodontist.

What foods should I avoid to minimize braces pain?

To minimize braces pain, avoid hard, sticky, and chewy foods. These types of foods can put extra pressure on your teeth, irritate your gums, and even damage your braces, leading to increased discomfort and potentially longer treatment times.

Specifically, hard foods like nuts, hard candies, and ice can exert excessive force on your teeth, causing pain and potentially breaking brackets or wires. Sticky foods, such as caramel, chewing gum, and taffy, can get stuck in your braces and are difficult to remove, leading to increased pressure and discomfort, as well as contributing to plaque buildup. Chewy foods, including bagels, licorice, and certain types of meat, require a lot of chewing, which can put strain on your teeth and jaw, exacerbating any existing soreness from braces adjustments. Furthermore, be cautious with foods that require biting directly into, like apples or corn on the cob. Instead of biting into them, cut them into smaller, manageable pieces that you can chew comfortably. Avoiding these categories of foods, especially in the days following an adjustment, will significantly reduce your chances of experiencing unnecessary braces pain.

Are there any over-the-counter medications for braces pain relief?

Yes, several over-the-counter (OTC) medications can effectively alleviate the pain and discomfort associated with braces. The most commonly recommended and generally effective options are pain relievers like ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and acetaminophen (Tylenol). These medications work by reducing inflammation and blocking pain signals, respectively, providing temporary relief during the initial adjustment period or after tightening appointments.

While ibuprofen and acetaminophen are readily available and generally safe when taken as directed, it's crucial to follow the recommended dosage instructions on the packaging. Ibuprofen is an NSAID (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug), and it can be particularly helpful in reducing the inflammation that often contributes to braces pain. Acetaminophen, on the other hand, primarily targets pain relief and doesn't have significant anti-inflammatory properties. Individuals with pre-existing medical conditions, such as kidney problems or liver issues, or those taking other medications, should consult with their doctor or pharmacist before using these OTC pain relievers. For localized pain, such as irritation from brackets rubbing against the cheeks or gums, topical anesthetics like benzocaine-based gels or creams (e.g., Orajel) can provide temporary relief. These products numb the affected area, reducing sensitivity and discomfort. It is also important to maintain good oral hygiene while using braces. Proper brushing and flossing can help prevent additional irritation and inflammation. If pain persists or becomes severe despite using OTC remedies, consulting your orthodontist is recommended to rule out any underlying issues or potential adjustments needed to your braces.

How does applying wax help with painful braces brackets?

Applying orthodontic wax creates a smooth barrier between the sharp edges of braces brackets and the soft tissues inside your mouth, like your cheeks, lips, and tongue. This prevents the brackets from rubbing directly against these sensitive areas, reducing friction and irritation that cause pain and sores.

When you first get braces or after adjustments, the brackets can feel rough and protrude in ways that irritate the delicate lining of your mouth. This constant friction leads to inflammation, discomfort, and even painful ulcers. Orthodontic wax is specifically designed to be pliable and moldable, allowing you to easily apply it to the offending bracket. The wax effectively covers the sharp edges and creates a rounded, smooth surface that minimizes rubbing and allows the irritated tissues to heal. The wax acts as a temporary shield, providing immediate relief. While it doesn't address the underlying cause of the discomfort (which is the movement of your teeth), it allows you to manage the pain effectively and comfortably until your mouth adjusts to the braces. It's important to replace the wax as needed, especially after eating or brushing, to maintain the protective barrier and continue preventing irritation. Good oral hygiene, combined with regular wax application, is crucial for a more comfortable braces experience.

Is there a way to toughen my mouth to reduce braces soreness?

While you can't exactly "toughen" your mouth to eliminate braces soreness completely, you can take steps to desensitize your mouth and make it more resilient to the friction and pressure caused by braces. This involves gentle oral care practices and strategic management of discomfort.

Initially, the pain from braces comes from two main sources: the pressure of the brackets moving your teeth and the friction of the brackets rubbing against the soft tissues of your mouth (cheeks, lips, tongue). You can indirectly "toughen" your mouth by promoting faster healing of sores and reducing inflammation. Rinsing with warm salt water (1/4 teaspoon of salt in 8 ounces of water) several times a day, especially after adjustments, is a highly effective method. The salt water acts as a mild antiseptic and helps to reduce inflammation, promoting faster healing of any ulcers or irritations. Another strategy is to use dental wax generously on any brackets or wires that are causing friction. This creates a physical barrier between the metal and your soft tissues, preventing further irritation and allowing existing sores to heal. Over time, your mouth will naturally adapt to the braces, and the soft tissues will become less sensitive to the rubbing. Think of it like breaking in a new pair of shoes – initially uncomfortable, but eventually molding to your feet. Focus on a soft food diet immediately after adjustments to minimize the pressure exerted during chewing. Finally, maintaining excellent oral hygiene is crucial. This includes brushing gently but thoroughly after every meal and flossing daily (possibly with floss threaders designed for braces). Keeping your mouth clean reduces the risk of infection and inflammation, which can exacerbate soreness. Using a soft-bristled toothbrush can also help to minimize irritation during brushing. While these methods won’t make your mouth completely impervious to pain, they will significantly improve your comfort level and help you adapt to braces more quickly.

How long does braces pain usually last after adjustments?

Braces pain after an adjustment typically lasts for 1 to 7 days, with the peak discomfort usually occurring within the first 24 hours. The severity of the pain varies from person to person, with some experiencing only mild tenderness and others experiencing more significant discomfort.

The pain stems from the pressure exerted on your teeth and gums as the archwire is tightened or changed. This pressure is necessary to gradually shift your teeth into the desired positions. The periodontal ligament, which connects your teeth to the jawbone, becomes inflamed, leading to sensitivity and discomfort. The duration and intensity of the pain depend on factors like your individual pain tolerance, the amount of adjustment made, and the specific type of braces you have. While the initial discomfort can be bothersome, there are several ways to manage it. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or acetaminophen (Tylenol) can help alleviate the pain. Applying a cold compress or ice pack to the outside of your cheeks for 15-20 minutes at a time can also numb the area and reduce inflammation. Eating soft foods like soup, yogurt, and mashed potatoes during the first few days after an adjustment can minimize pressure on your teeth. Here are some things you can do to stop braces pain:

When should I contact my orthodontist about severe braces pain?

You should contact your orthodontist immediately if you experience severe braces pain that doesn't subside with over-the-counter pain medication, persists for more than a week after an adjustment, is accompanied by signs of infection such as fever or swelling, or if a wire is poking you and you can't relieve it with wax.

While some discomfort is normal after getting braces or following adjustments, severe or prolonged pain is not. Persistent pain could indicate a problem with the braces themselves, such as a broken wire or bracket, or it could signal an underlying issue like an infection or an ulcer forming from the braces rubbing. Ignoring severe pain can potentially lead to complications that could prolong your treatment time or even negatively impact your oral health. It's always better to err on the side of caution and contact your orthodontist to assess the situation and receive appropriate guidance. Remember that your orthodontist is your best resource for addressing any concerns you have about your braces treatment. Don't hesitate to reach out to their office. They may be able to offer specific advice tailored to your situation, adjust your braces to alleviate the pressure, or prescribe stronger pain medication if necessary. Clear communication with your orthodontist ensures a smoother and more comfortable braces experience.

And that's it! Hopefully, these tips have helped you find some relief from braces pain. Remember, it's temporary, and a beautiful smile is on the way. Thanks for reading, and don't forget to come back for more tips and tricks to make your orthodontic journey a little bit easier!