Braces have been one of the most bittersweet innovations of modern dental technology since their inception. Though they are an expensive nuisance and an awkward symbol of youth all at once, the promise of perfectly straight teeth is often worth the hefty price tag. However, braces are often paid for in more than money. Their installation and subsequent maintenance can often cause soreness, pain and irritation for the wearer. Thankfully, the discomfort of braces is not a hopeless plight, and there are a number of measures one can take to significantly reduce and manage the pain. Below, we will discuss some tried and true methods of easing away your braces pain!
Apply Coldness to the Affected Area
Just as cooling injured body parts can assist their discomfort and healing, so too can it help with oral discomfort caused by braces. Applying cold to the cheeks, gums, and other sensitive spots in the mouth can ease inflammation and pain caused by braces. Furthermore, it can promote blood flow into the area, expediting the healing process of any tissue that may have been damaged during fitting or adjustment. Just be careful if you have especially sensitive teeth, as applying coldness can easily aggravate them. Cold can be administered in the form of ice, cold compresses, cold food and drink, or even frozen teething rings.
Do A Salt Water Rinse
Salt water rinses are a tried and true remedy for alleviating oral pain and reducing inflammation in the mouth. As with all other ailments that cause oral pain and inflammation, braces pain can be reduced with a vigorous, one minute salt water rinse. Salt water not only reduces inflammation, but also prevents and fights any infections in the mouth. Be careful, however, about continuing a salt water rinsing regime for too long, as it can gradually weaken teeth over time. It is recommended to keep daily salt water rinses to a maximum of two weeks.
Add Softer Foods to Your Diet
Like most dental procedures, the installation and adjustment of braces can cause normal, temporary pain and discomfort shortly afterward. It is best to stick with soft foods, soups, and any meals that minimize chewing until your mouth settles into the new pressure. Once the pain has subsided, you can eat as normal, save for some classic, braces unfriendly foods like corn.
Try Out Gum Massages
Though not as common as body massages, gums can be gently massaged with your fingertips. Like body massages, the result is reduction of inflammation, relaxation of the muscle and tissue, and easing of pain. Loosening up the gums and muscles in your mouth should ease the pressure being applied by your new braces.
Use Over the Counter Pain Medication
While not the best option for long term treatment, over the counter pain medication is useful for more severe pains associated with braces. This may include aspirin, ibuprofen, or nay other medications that alleviate inflammation. Medication is best used early on, however, and only when the pain is inhibiting daily function.
Be Patient
With time, your mouth will settle into the new configuration your braces are trying to force on it. What you’ll be left with is perfectly aligned, pain free teeth!
