How to Reduce Soreness From Braces

Millions of people wear braces to correct their teeth. Braces are made of metal brackets that are glued to your teeth as well as wires that connect the brackets. They work by slowly moving your teeth into the desired position. The benefits of wearing braces include straighter teeth, a more attractive smile, and better oral health. However, braces can sometimes cause soreness or discomfort. In this article, we’ll discuss how to reduce soreness from braces and tips for taking care of them.

What You Can Do Right Now

To reduce soreness from braces, it’s important to keep your mouth clean. Brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss once a day. You should also avoid eating hard, sticky, or chewy foods. If you do eat these types of foods, be sure to brush your teeth afterward. In addition, you can take over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen to help relieve pain and inflammation.

Other Tips Worth Trying

1. Take painkillers if necessary.
2. Drink lots of fluids and eat soft foods.
3. Rinse your mouth with salt water after every meal.
4. Avoid hard, sticky, and chewy foods where possible.
5. Use an interdental brush to clean around the wires and brackets.
6. Brushing your teeth morning and night is essential. You can use fluoride toothpaste designed specifically for braces wearers.
7. Floss regularly using a floss threader or special flossing picks designed for braces patients (particularly around the wire).
8. Be gentle when brushing your teeth. Avoid scrubbing too hard at the brackets or wires as this can damage them and cause increased pain levels.
9. Gently rinse off any food debris after eating with cold water, but don’t use hot water as this can cause more pain.
10. If the pain gets too much, seek professional help immediately from your orthodontist.

There are an estimated 3.9 million young people in this country who receive orthodontic services, according to the American Association of Orthodontists, so these tips have been tested and found to be effective. If you’re considering getting braces, it’s important to consult with a Central Florida orthodontist from Best Smiles. We’ll be able to assess your individual needs and recommend the best course of treatment. We can also help with any discomfort. Get in touch today!