How to Relieve Discomfort With Braces: Effective Remedies & Tips

Braces are used in orthodontics to align teeth and straighten smiles. During the process, some patients may feel some initial discomfort. Here, our orthodontists share some tips on how to stop braces discomfort after tightening to help you remain comfortable throughout treatment.

Why Braces May Cause Oral Discomfort

The initial placement or new adjustments on braces can sometimes lead to a bit of oral discomfort. This is because braces gently apply pressure on your teeth to help them shift into place. But don't worry, this discomfort is completely normal and usually goes away as your mouth gets used to the braces.

Any discomfort that you may experience should be quite mild and subside fairly quickly. If you experience severe pain, loose brackets, or broken wires, you should contact your orthodontist immediately.

Here we break down some of the main situations that may lead to mild discomfort.

• Pressure and tooth movement: The main reason for discomfort is the gentle, consistent pressure that braces apply to your teeth to help shift them into the desired position.
• Initial soreness: Initially, after getting braces, your teeth, gums, and mouth require time to adapt to the new appliance, which can result in soreness and tenderness.
• Irritation from brackets and wires: Brackets and wires may sometimes irritate the inside of your cheeks, lips, and tongue, leading to mild discomfort.
• Tightening adjustments: At routine orthodontic visits, tightening the braces may increase the pressure and cause minor discomfort as your teeth shift.

Relieve Braces Discomfort With Saltwater

A warm salt water rinse can alleviate discomfort caused by braces, as it helps reduce inflammation and clears bacteria, promoting healing.

How does salt water help?

• The salt in the water helps to draw out any excess fluid, soothe discomfort and reduce inflammation in the gums and tissues.
• The warm temperature can also alleviate pain and encourage healing.
• Rinsing with salt water helps eliminate bacteria from any irritated areas, preventing infection and promoting quicker healing.

How to Prepare a Salt Rinse

1. Combine 1/2 teaspoon of salt with 8 ounces of warm water until the salt fully dissolves.
2. Swish the solution around your mouth for about 30 seconds, then spit it out.
3. Perform this process multiple times daily or as required, particularly after meals and when feeling uncomfortable.

Other Tips to Stop Braces Pain

• Use dental wax on any sharp edges or brackets that cause irritation.
• Stay hydrated to keep your mouth moist and encourage healing.

Dietary Adjustments to Minimize Braces Discomfort

To minimize braces discomfort, focus on soft, easy-to-chew foods like yogurt, soups, and mashed potatoes, and avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods that could damage your braces or cause discomfort.

Long-Term Comfort Throughout Your Orthodontic Journey

To ensure long-term comfort throughout your orthodontic journey, prioritize good oral hygiene, manage discomfort using a salt water rinse, eat soft foods, and get support from your orthodontist when needed.

Make sure to brush your teeth thoroughly after each meal and floss every day to prevent plaque accumulation and gum disease. You should also rinse your mouth with water or mouthwash after meals to remove food particles and keep your breath fresh.

Schedule routine dental visits to keep track of your oral health and tackle any potential problems promptly. This goes for your routine orthodontic appointments as well!

When to Call Our Orthodontists at Village Orthodontics

While general discomfort from braces can typically be addressed at home using the tips above, there may be instances when a visit to your orthodontist is necessary. If you encounter severe or persistent pain, or you have a broken bracket or wire, you should reach out to your orthodontist immediately.

Broken brackets and wires can disrupt your treatment and fail to provide the necessary pressure to shift your teeth. If these issues aren’t resolved quickly, you might end up wearing braces for a longer duration. Your orthodontist is equipped to repair loose or broken brackets and wires, ensuring your treatment proceeds smoothly and alleviating any discomfort you might be facing.

Ready to get started with your orthodontic journey? Our orthodontists are here for you every step of the way. Request a consultation at one of our Village Orthodontics locations today.