Getting braces is a major step toward a beautiful, healthy smile, but it often comes with some discomfort and pain. Whether you’ve just had your braces put on or recently had an adjustment, the soreness and irritation can be challenging to deal with. The good news is that there are multiple safe and effective ways to relieve pain from braces to keep you comfortable throughout your orthodontic treatment.
Why Do Braces Cause Pain?
Braces work by applying continuous pressure to your teeth, gradually moving them into the desired position. This pressure can cause inflammation in the teeth and surrounding gums, leading to soreness, tenderness, and sometimes irritation from the brackets and wires rubbing against the soft tissues inside your mouth.
This pain is usually most intense right after your braces are initially placed and after each tightening or adjustment session with your orthodontist. While some discomfort is normal, it should not be severe or persistent. If it is, always consult your orthodontist.
Top Tips to Relieve Bracing Pain
1. Use Cold Compresses or Ice Packs
Applying a cold compress or ice pack to the outside of your mouth near the painful areas can reduce inflammation and numb your pain. The cold causes blood vessels to constrict, which helps decrease swelling and soreness. You can apply a cold pack for 15 to 20 minutes several times a day to get relief. Additionally, sucking on ice cubes or eating cold treats like popsicles or ice cream can help soothe your mouth internally and numb the discomfort.
2. Take Over-the-Counter Pain Medication
Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen (Advil) or acetaminophen (Tylenol) are effective for managing braces pain. Ibuprofen has the added benefit of reducing inflammation, making it a preferred choice for many. It’s best to take the pain medicine about an hour before your orthodontic appointment or as soon as you start feeling soreness after adjustments. Always follow dosage instructions on the label and consult your doctor if you have any health concerns.
3. Use Orthodontic Wax for Irritated Areas
Sometimes, the brackets and wires can rub against the inside of your cheeks, lips, or gums, causing irritation and sores. Applying orthodontic wax creates a smooth barrier over these areas and prevents further rubbing. Simply take a small piece of wax, soften it between your fingers, and place it over the offending bracket or wire. Replace the wax as needed, especially after meals and brushing your teeth.
4. Rinse with Warm Salt Water
Salt water rinses are a natural, gentle way to reduce inflammation and promote healing. Mix half a teaspoon of salt into a cup of warm water and swish it around your mouth for about a minute. Repeat this a few times daily, especially after meals. It can help soothe sores and reduce gum swelling caused by braces.
5. Massage Your Gums
Just like a massage can ease tension in your muscles, gently massaging your gums can improve blood flow and relieve soreness. Use clean fingers to rub your gums in small circular motions. For added relief, try massaging your gums with a small ice cube before the massage to numb the area and reduce pain.
6. Eat Soft Foods and Avoid Hard or Sticky Foods
Your diet can affect how much pain you experience with braces. Avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods as these can aggravate your teeth and gums or even damage your braces. Stick to soft foods such as yogurt, mashed potatoes, smoothies, oatmeal, scrambled eggs, and soups during periods of soreness. Cold soft foods can also provide a soothing, numbing effect.
7. Practice Good Oral Hygiene
Maintaining careful oral hygiene is crucial while wearing braces. Food particles can get trapped and cause gum irritation or infection, which can worsen pain. Brush at least twice a day using a soft-bristled brush and floss daily with floss threaders or orthodontic floss. Using a fluoride mouthwash can also strengthen teeth and reduce sensitivity.
8. Use Oral Anesthetics
If the pain is localized to certain areas, applying an oral anesthetic gel or cream like Orajel or Anbesol can help temporarily numb the sensitive teeth and gums. Use a cotton swab or your finger to apply the gel directly to the sore spots following product instructions. This offers quick but short-term relief, especially after new adjustments.
9. Heat Therapy for Jaw Pain
In some cases, brace pain extends to jaw muscles, causing stiffness or soreness. In this case, applying a warm heating pad to the jaw muscles for 15 to 20 minutes may relax the muscles and reduce discomfort. This is a good alternative or complement to cold compresses, which mainly target inflammation.
When to See Your Orthodontist
While some pain and discomfort are expected, persistent or severe pain could indicate a problem such as a broken wire or loose bracket. If your pain lasts more than a few days or you notice swelling, bleeding, or signs of infection, contact your orthodontist promptly. They can adjust your braces or provide additional treatment to keep your orthodontic journey comfortable and on track.
FAQs
1. Is it normal for braces to hurt after they are put on or adjusted?
Yes, experiencing mild soreness and discomfort is completely normal when braces are first applied or after adjustments. This pain typically lasts a few days and is a sign that your teeth are moving gradually into their new positions.
2. How long does braces pain usually last?
The initial discomfort from new braces or post-adjustment normally subsides within 3 to 7 days. Pain intensity decreases after the first 24–48 hours, and your mouth adapts with each phase of treatment.
3. What home remedies can help relieve bracing pain?
Applying cold compresses, rinsing with warm saltwater, using orthodontic wax, sticking to soft foods, and taking over-the-counter pain medication can help relieve discomfort effectively.
4. Can braces cause mouth sores or ulcers, and how can I prevent them?
Usually, irritation from wires and brackets can cause mouth sores or ulcers. Using orthodontic wax and rinsing with salt water help protect sensitive tissues and heal any minor sore spots.
5. When should I contact my orthodontist about pain?
You should contact your orthodontist if you experience severe pain, pain that doesn’t improve after several days, bleeding, swelling, or signs of infection. These symptoms could indicate a broken bracket, poking wire, or a dental issue requiring professional care.