It’s no secret that braces can be painful. In fact, many people report feeling pain and discomfort during the entire time they are wearing braces. If you’re one of those people, don’t worry – you’re not alone! Here are some tips on how to deal with the pain of braces.
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Ice
It’s not uncommon to experience pain with braces, especially when they’re first put on or tightened. To help relieve some of the discomfort, try placing a cold ice pack on your cheeks for about 20 minutes. You can also use an ice cube wrapped in a thin towel. Gently press it against your gums and teeth. Repeat as necessary, but avoid overdoing it as this could lead to more pain and swelling. To make sure you don’t ice your gums too much, only do it for a few minutes at a time and give yourself breaks in between.
Hot Peppermint Tea Bags
Hot peppermint tea bags can help soothe braces pain in a couple of ways. The warm tea helps to relax the muscles around the jaws and teeth, which can ease pain and tension. The menthol in peppermint also has a numbing effect that can temporarily relieve discomfort. To use this method, simply steep a peppermint tea bag in hot water for several minutes, then apply it to the painful area for 10-15 minutes. You can repeat this process as needed throughout the day. For best results, look for tea bags that contain whole leaves, as these will provide the most potent peppermint oil.
Avoiding Harder Foods
Eating hard or crunchy foods can aggravate the pain of braces, so it’s best to avoid them if possible. Instead, stick to softer foods that are easy to chew. Here are some examples of good foods to eat with braces:
- Soft fruits and vegetables, such as ripe bananas, avocados, cooked carrots, etc.
- Mashed potatoes
- Yogurt
- Oatmeal
- Scrambled eggs
- Macaroni and cheese
In general, you should avoid any foods that are hard, sticky, or chewy. This includes things like candy, nuts, popcorn, and chewing gum. If you do eat something that’s hard or crunchy, be sure to brush your teeth afterwards to avoid damaging your braces.
Orthodontic wax
If you’re experiencing pain in a specific area, orthodontic wax can help to relieve it. This sticky substance can be applied to the protruding edges of brackets and wires, providing a smooth, protective barrier between them and the gums. In addition to helping to reduce irritation, orthodontic wax can also be used to temporarily fix loose wires or brackets. Simply apply a small amount of wax to the offending item and press it back into place. If you are experiencing pain or discomfort from your braces, be sure to ask your orthodontist about orthodontic wax at your next appointment.
Good dental hygiene
It’s important to maintain good dental hygiene when you have braces, as this can help to reduce pain and discomfort. Be sure to brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss once a day. It’s also a good idea to use an interdental brush or water flosser to clean around the brackets and wires. This will help remove food and plaque that can lead to pain and irritation. If you’re not sure how to properly brush and floss with braces, ask your orthodontist for some tips.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dealing with the Pain of Braces
Here are some answers to common questions about dealing with braces pain:
How long does the pain from braces last?
The pain from braces is usually worst when they’re first put on or tightened. This typically lasts for a few days to a week. After that, the pain should gradually lessen as your mouth gets used to the new hardware. However, you may still experience some discomfort when eating hard or sticky foods.
Why do braces hurt so much?
Braces can be painful because they’re constantly putting pressure on the teeth and gums. This can lead to swelling, irritation, and even sores in the mouth. In addition, the brackets and wires can rub against the gums and cheeks, causing further pain and irritation.
What can I do to relieve the pain of braces?
There are several things you can do to relieve the pain of braces. These include using orthodontic wax, avoiding hard or crunchy foods, practicing good dental hygiene, and taking over-the-counter pain medication. If the pain is severe, you can also ask your orthodontist about getting a prescription for stronger pain medication.
Final Thoughts
If you’re dealing with the pain of braces, there are several things you can do to ease the discomfort. These include using orthodontic wax, avoiding hard or crunchy foods, practicing good dental hygiene, and taking over-the-counter pain medication. If the pain is severe, you can also ask your orthodontist about getting a prescription for stronger pain medication. Now that you know how to deal with the pain of braces, you can focus on enjoying your new smile.
