Each patient experiences soreness differently after braces while some do not even feel pain. Many patients claim it is painful when their orthodontist adjusts braces during therapy. After the orthodontic wire is inserted into the freshly installed brackets, there may be some tightness or discomfort to last for a few days or a week. The first four to seven days after the placement of braces, expanders, or wires, many patients experience pain. This is normal because it’s a part of the treatment. However, if the pain is unbearable and persists longer than usual, consulting your dentist can help you out of it.
Here Are the Things to Do to Reduce Pain After Braces.
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Ice Packs and Ice Creams
Ice packs relieve swelling and irritation caused by wearing braces. Applying a handmade ice pack to your cheek will soothe your braces and the affected area.
Avoid sucking or biting on ice because it could break your braces, rushing you to an urgent doctor’s appointment. You can also have foods, such as ice cream and smoothies, to reduce pain in the places where the braces are causing discomfort.
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Oral Hygiene
Good oral hygiene keeps you from pain and discomfort. You must maintain your teeth and braces immaculately clean to prevent gum disease and tooth decay. Make a habit of brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash to remove all food debris left behind from eating.
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Salt Water
Sometimes the gums and cheeks adjust to the tighter wires, resulting in ulcers. Warm salt water solution swishing for one minute can help prevent infection and ease pain caused by the braces. Many people find this method workable. Although, braces pain is a matter of a few days, practicing this method can help you reduce swelling and inflammation.
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Orthodontic Wax
You can use orthodontic wax on the mouth’s soft tissue that suffers irritation. If the wires in your braces feel sharp or irritate your mouth, you can ask your dentist for an orthodontic wax. You can find it in stores nearby. Apply the wax to brackets that touch your inner cheekbones or lips. Almost any part of the mouth can be treated by breaking off little pieces of wax.
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Pain Reliever
Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen, which help to reduce discomfort and inflammation, may be helpful for pain. However, you should consult your dentist to follow the correct dosage recommendations.
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Avoid Hard Food
Braces come with a bit of food sacrifice. Do not worry because it is not for a longer time. Avoid chewing on hard foods because you may risk spoiling your braces. When you chew hard and crunchy food, your jaw, gums, lips, and cheeks may all experience pain. Remember that everything becomes a little bit more sensitive as your braces become tighter. When something rubs against it, the resulting inflammation can be painful. Until the pain goes away, make a habit of eating softer foods like soups and smoothies.
Conclusion
Since braces correct your smile and teeth alignment, it is better to have some patience before cribbing on a treatment that is for your good oral health. It is just a matter of some time. Listening to your dentist and following the guidance is the key to a speedy recovery.
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