Braces on teeth can cause pain and discomfort, but they should be manageable as your teeth are gradually moved into the correct position.
Pain from braces generally subsides after a few days as you adapt to the new pressure on your teeth.
Over-the-Counter Medications
Ache when wearing braces on teeth can be reduced with over-the-counter drugs like acetaminophen or ibuprofen. They are safe for children and adults and can be taken as needed.
To reduce pain and inflammation, eat soft foods that are easy to chew and won’t irritate your teeth or braces. Avoid hard, crunchy foods like raw vegetables and chips that may cause more irritation to your mouth. Instead, choose soups, mashed potatoes, pudding, yogurt and other liquid foods that won’t require chewing. Another option is to rub an oral anesthetic directly on your sensitive teeth and gums with a cotton swab or finger. These products desensitize your mouth, reducing the pain you experience as your teeth shift. After a few days, braces’ discomfort usually goes away as your mouth gets used to it. But, if it lasts longer than this, visit an affordable dentist Austin to rule out other issues that could be causing the discomfort. In Texas, more than 67% of third-graders have tooth decay. The most prevalent disease in the country and the most prevalent dental issue in North Austin is decay. Most children nowadays already wear braces. That’s why practicing oral care at a very young age is essential.
Ice Packs
If you are feeling pain or discomfort from wearing braces, there are several things you can do to help. One of the most common is to use an ice pack.
Ice reduces swelling and inflammation to decrease pain. You can buy ice packs at your local pharmacy.
Another way to soothe an aching mouth is to sip cold water or chew on an ice cube. It will numb the pain and reduce inflammation in your mouth.
The ice pack is the only thing you need to be cautious about not swallowing. Many ice packs have chemical reactors that can be toxic if you consume them.
Cold Foods
If you have a sore mouth from wearing braces, eating cold foods can help to ease the pain. Ice cream, popsicles and a glass of ice water can reduce inflammation and offer a numbing effect on your gums and mouth.
You can also try salt water rinse to fight inflammation and pain. Just swish a few pinches of salt in a glass of water, and you’ll be ready.
Alternatively, you may be sent home with a small amount of orthodontic wax to apply to the offending brackets. Orthodontic wax coats the metal and prevents irritation, which can lead to sores and cuts.
Warm Salt Water Rinse
Braces can cause a lot of pain, especially after they first go in and after an adjustment appointment. It’s because your teeth and gums must adjust to the new shape of your braces, and the metal wires can rub against spots on your mouth.
Saltwater rinses can help to ease irritation, swelling, and soreness. They also kill bacteria and reduce infections that may occur.
Salt inhibits dental bacteria by creating an alkaline environment in that they can’t thrive. It also helps to remove plaque from your teeth.
Massage Your Gums
Massage is a simple but effective way to ease the pain when wearing braces on teeth. It also helps to stimulate circulation to the gums, which is good for overall health.
Regularly massaging the gums can also reduce bacterial growth and plaque levels. It paves the way for healthy gums and helps to prevent tooth loss.
Massage the gums with clean hands and gently rub them in circular motions. You can even rub an ice cube on your gums before the massage, increasing its effectiveness.
