Braces can be life-changing, giving you a beautifully aligned smile and improved oral health. However, the process can sometimes come with some discomfort, especially during your first visit to get braces or after an adjustment. If you’ve been wondering how to numb the pain of braces or ease braces’ soreness, you’re not alone!
The good news is that there are plenty of ways to manage the discomfort and make your orthodontic journey more bearable.
At Damon Orthodontics, we understand the ups and downs of wearing braces and are here to offer expert advice to help you through the process. Below are practical tips on how to stop pain from braces, so you can focus on the amazing results waiting at the end of your treatment.
Key Takeaways
- It’s normal for people to sometimes have a little discomfort or soreness from their braces.
- Braces can cause minor irritation or pain in the mouth, gums, cheeks, and lips.
- Over-the-counter pain relief medication can help alleviate discomfort from braces.
- Proper oral hygiene is essential when wearing braces to avoid any potential issues.
- If you experience severe or persistent pain, contact your orthodontist for professional advice.
Why Do Braces Cause Pain?
Before jumping into solutions, it’s helpful to understand why braces can be painful. Braces work by applying continuous pressure to move your teeth into proper alignment. This pressure can cause temporary irritation to your gums, teeth, and jaw as your body adjusts to the changes.
Pain typically lasts a few days after getting braces or tightening appointments. While the soreness may be uncomfortable, it’s a sign that your treatment is progressing as planned!
Effective Ways to Ease Braces Soreness
With that being said, let’s talk about the different ways you can help with soreness from your braces:
1. Over-the-Counter Pain Relief
Taking an over-the-counter pain reliever, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil), can help reduce inflammation and manage the pain.
Take it as directed by the label, and consider timing the dose for right before or after an adjustment appointment.
2. Eat Soft Foods
Switching to soft or liquid foods for a few days can greatly reduce chewing-related discomfort. Some great options include:
- Mashed potatoes
- Smoothies
- Soups
- Yogurt
- Applesauce
Avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods that could irritate or even damage your braces.
3. Use Orthodontic Wax
Orthodontic wax is your best friend during braces treatment! Apply a small piece of wax to any brackets or wires that are causing irritation to your cheeks or gums. This creates a smooth surface and prevents cuts or sores in your mouth.
Pro tip from Damon Orthodontics: Carry some orthodontic wax with you, especially in the early weeks of treatment when soreness might flare up unexpectedly.
4. Apply Cold or Warm Compresses
For jaw or gum pain, try applying a cold compress to reduce swelling or numb the area. Wrap an ice pack in a towel and hold it against your cheek for 10-15 minutes.
Alternatively, a warm compress or heating pad can help relax your facial muscles and relieve soreness if you’re experiencing jaw stiffness or tension.
5. Rinse With Salt Water
A warm saltwater rinse can soothe irritated gums and help with mouth sores.
Mix ½ teaspoon of salt into a glass of warm water, then gently swish it around in your mouth for 30 seconds before spitting it out.
6. Use Numbing Gels
Over-the-counter dental numbing gels, like Orajel or Anbesol, can provide targeted relief for mouth pain.
Apply a small amount directly to the sore area using a cotton swab or clean finger for instant numbing.
7. Stay Hydrated
Sometimes irritation can be exacerbated by dry mouth.
Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your mouth hydrated and reduce sensitivity.
8. Avoid Touching or Adjusting Braces
It can be tempting to adjust your braces or touch them with your fingers or tongue, but this can worsen irritation and prolong discomfort.
Leave any necessary adjustments to the experts, like Dr. Clay Damon and Dr. Paul Damon, who specialize in creating comfortable orthodontic experiences.
9. Stay Positive
While braces pain can be frustrating, remember that it’s temporary and part of the process to achieving a healthier and more beautiful smile.
Focus on the end result and celebrate small milestones along the way!
Damon Orthodontics Offers Comfort-Driven Solutions
At Damon Orthodontics, we specialize in making your braces experience as comfortable as possible. Our Damon braces system uses self-ligating technology that reduces friction and pressure, leading to faster teeth movement, fewer adjustments, and less discomfort compared to traditional braces.
For those seeking a more discreet and comfortable option, we also offer Damon clear braces and Invisalign aligners, which are gentle on the mouth and virtually invisible.
When to Seek Professional Help
While pain from braces is usually temporary, there are times when you should consult your orthodontist:
- If the pain lasts longer than a week.
- If wires or brackets are broken and causing injury.
- If sores or ulcers do not heal with time or basic remedies.
- If you experience severe swelling or unexpected issues with your teeth.
At Damon Orthodontics, our caring team is here to assist you every step of the way. Feel free to schedule a visit to address any concerns or simply for extra guidance on managing braces discomfort.
FAQ
Q: How can I stop the pain from my braces?
A: There are a few things you can do to help alleviate the pain from your braces. First, try taking over-the-counter pain medication such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen. You can also try rinsing your mouth with warm salt water or using an oral numbing gel prescribed by your orthodontist. Additionally, avoiding hard and sticky foods can prevent further discomfort.
Q: What should I do if my wires or brackets break?
A: If any part of your braces breaks off and is causing injury, it is important to contact your orthodontist immediately for assistance. Do not attempt to fix it yourself as this could result in further damage.
Q: Ho can I numb the pain from my braces?
A: There are several ways to alleviate the pain and discomfort caused by braces. You can try using over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, following the recommended dosage on the label. Another option is to use orthodontic wax to cover any sharp edges or irritations caused by brackets or wires. For more severe pain, you can also ask your orthodontist for oral numbing gel or rinse your mouth with warm salt water to help ease the discomfort.
Say Goodbye to Braces Pain
Braces may cause temporary discomfort, but with these tried-and-true remedies, you can ease the pain and enjoy your orthodontic transformation. If you’re struggling with soreness from braces or have further questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to your orthodontist for professional advice.
Remember, every moment of discomfort brings you closer to that perfect smile. At Damon Orthodontics, we’re here to ensure your braces experience is as smooth and comfortable as possible.
Call Damon Orthodontics today or schedule a free consultation online! Your healthier, brighter smile is waiting.