Are you desperate for a tip (or seven) on how to manage the pain and discomfort of braces?
There are many benefits to orthodontics that make it a highly sought-after treatment.
But with all good things, there are some trade-offs, one of which can be pain and discomfort.
Here’s a list of 7 tips for dealing with painful braces.
7 TIPS FOR DEALING WITH PAINFUL BRACES
1. Dental Wax
The pain and discomfort from braces come in many different forms and sources.
One common source of this can be a wire that has unseated itself or even the rough edges of the braces themselves.
Dental wax is incredibly helpful and will create a soft, non-abrasive surface to protect the tissues in your mouth from the equipment in it.
2. Oral Hygiene
If there’s one thing that gets in the way of proper hygiene it’s pain.
Neglecting oral hygiene to avoid pain is a common but problematic mistake and can lead to gum disease as well as other mouth challenges.
Maintain a healthy oral hygiene routine and this will help keep pain and discomfort to a minimum.
3. Topical Oral Anesthetics
Over-the-counter creams and gels can be applied to the gums and teeth to help minimize pain.
Applying this solution can help mitigate some of the soreness involved in proper oral hygiene, making those very important tasks more tolerable and likely to be accomplished.
4. Keep It Soft and Cool
Eating soft foods may prevent pain involved in chewing with a sore set of teeth.
Harder foods typically require more bite pressure to chew properly. Plan your meals ahead of time if possible and consider soups and other easily chewed foods when your teeth are sore.
Additionally, cold foods can also have a numbing effect and make the eating process more tolerable.
Keep the pain at bay with something as simple as sipping on cold water throughout the day.
5. Bite Wafers
Bite wafers are like mouthguards you can gently bite down on to increase circulation and ease discomfort.
A gentle bite is all that is needed to provide relief.
6. Salt Water Rinse
Rinse your mouth with warm salt water to promote healing and have a soothing effect on any mouth sores that may have come about.
1 teaspoon of salt per 8oz of water is a common solution that may work well.
7. Over-the-Counter Relief
Over-the-counter solutions such as acetaminophen (commonly known as Tylenol) or ibuprofen (also known as Motrin) may aid in relief.
Take as needed and follow directions on the medication bottle.
Bonus tip: Keep your orthodontist in the loop! Don’t forget to mention your at-home practices for your braces.
When it comes to your teeth, orthodontics can be a huge source of comfort for added confidence and poise.
Keep these seven tips for dealing with painful braces in mind and give us a call if there’s something out of the ordinary, you’re dealing with.
Wonder if braces are for you? We’d be happy to help you find out.
Contact Integrity Dental in Pueblo, CO today to set up an appointment with Dr. Ordahl.