Oral sensitivity or gum soreness associated with braces can be a
bit uncomfortable at times. Although the feeling of discomfort is
usually experienced after an adjustment, sometimes it can happen
spontaneously. Whatever the reasons or timings may be, there are a few
home remedies to help ease this soreness. If soreness persists for more
than a few days or a week contact your orthodontist. They won't mind to
take a look and make sure everything is working like it is supposed to.
Cold Beverages
Having a cold drink can really help you reduce the discomfort that is associated with braces. They are not only refreshing, but work effectively in giving the gums a "numb" feeling. Choose the cold drink you like and have as much as you need, chilled as cold as you can stand, to soothe those aching nerves and gums.
Eat Soft Foods
Another thing that may help is trying to stick to a soft diet. Avoid foods that are very hard, sticky, or chewy. Try softer foods such as bananas or oatmeal, or you could even do soups! Wait until the pain goes away and then you can carry on with your normal diet.
Use Dental Wax
It is recommended to use wax on the braces to avoid friction that leads to cuts, sores and aches. If a cut or a sore develops on the cheek, find the brace or poking wire that is the cause, roll a small piece of wax into a ball and squish it on the offending object. This will allow the cheek some time to heal. Once healed a callus will form making the cheeks tough and able to withstand poking objects.
Sensitive Toothpaste
There are many types of toothpaste available on the market, some of which are specifically designed for sensitive teeth. You can try these to help with tooth sensitivity, however it is intended more for sensitivity of the enamel rather than soreness of the gums and teeth.
Over the counter Oral Anesthesia
Oral anesthetic can be used to relieve discomfort from braces, however the benefits are very temporary. One common oral anesthetic is Orajel, which can be applied according to the directions. Before using any type of medication you should check with your orthodontist.
Salt and Water
This is a very effective home remedy for reducing soreness. Just add a teaspoon of salt in a glass of lukewarm water and stir until it dissolves completely. Rinse your mouth with this mixture a few times per day until soreness diminishes.
Over the counter Pain Relievers
Over the counter Pain Relievers such as Tylenol, Motrin, or Advil can be used to help with the discomfort of braces. Ibuprofen is also a good choice because of its ability to reduce inflammation. It's okay to take what you typically would for a headache, but be sure follow the instructions on the package.
Be Patient
The most important thing to remember is that you need to be patient. Understand that straightening the teeth involves a lot more than what you see. During your orthodontic treatment the teeth are moving through bone which makes things a bit sore. Use these home remedies as needed to get you by, however remember that it is the ultimate goal, a "perfect smile" that makes it all worth it!
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Cold Beverages
Having a cold drink can really help you reduce the discomfort that is associated with braces. They are not only refreshing, but work effectively in giving the gums a "numb" feeling. Choose the cold drink you like and have as much as you need, chilled as cold as you can stand, to soothe those aching nerves and gums.
Eat Soft Foods
Another thing that may help is trying to stick to a soft diet. Avoid foods that are very hard, sticky, or chewy. Try softer foods such as bananas or oatmeal, or you could even do soups! Wait until the pain goes away and then you can carry on with your normal diet.
Use Dental Wax
It is recommended to use wax on the braces to avoid friction that leads to cuts, sores and aches. If a cut or a sore develops on the cheek, find the brace or poking wire that is the cause, roll a small piece of wax into a ball and squish it on the offending object. This will allow the cheek some time to heal. Once healed a callus will form making the cheeks tough and able to withstand poking objects.
Sensitive Toothpaste
There are many types of toothpaste available on the market, some of which are specifically designed for sensitive teeth. You can try these to help with tooth sensitivity, however it is intended more for sensitivity of the enamel rather than soreness of the gums and teeth.
Over the counter Oral Anesthesia
Oral anesthetic can be used to relieve discomfort from braces, however the benefits are very temporary. One common oral anesthetic is Orajel, which can be applied according to the directions. Before using any type of medication you should check with your orthodontist.
Salt and Water
This is a very effective home remedy for reducing soreness. Just add a teaspoon of salt in a glass of lukewarm water and stir until it dissolves completely. Rinse your mouth with this mixture a few times per day until soreness diminishes.
Over the counter Pain Relievers
Over the counter Pain Relievers such as Tylenol, Motrin, or Advil can be used to help with the discomfort of braces. Ibuprofen is also a good choice because of its ability to reduce inflammation. It's okay to take what you typically would for a headache, but be sure follow the instructions on the package.
Be Patient
The most important thing to remember is that you need to be patient. Understand that straightening the teeth involves a lot more than what you see. During your orthodontic treatment the teeth are moving through bone which makes things a bit sore. Use these home remedies as needed to get you by, however remember that it is the ultimate goal, a "perfect smile" that makes it all worth it!
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