Braces are an incredible investment in your smile, but let’s be honest—sometimes, they can cause discomfort. From adjustments to wire tightening, it’s common to feel some pain. The good news is there are plenty of ways to manage it!
If you’ve been Googling “how to numb the pain of braces,” “how to relieve brace pain,” or “how to get rid of braces pain,” you’re in the right place.
Here are 9 tried-and-true ways to make your orthodontic treatment more comfortable.
Key Takeaways
- Braces pain is normal but manageable with the right techniques and remedies.
- Orthodontic wax and saltwater rinses are great for soothing irritation and soreness.
- Over-the-counter pain relievers and oral anesthetics can help alleviate more intense discomfort.
- Applying a warm compress or chewing on ice can reduce swelling and numb pain temporarily.
- Stick to soft foods during times of heightened discomfort to give your mouth a break.
- Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial to avoiding additional pain or complications with braces.
1. Use orthodontic wax
Orthodontic wax is a lifesaver for those with braces. It’s made of beeswax or paraffin and can be easily applied to any parts of your braces that are irritating your cheeks, gums, or lips. Just pinch off a small piece and roll it into a ball before pressing it onto the bracket or wire causing discomfort.
The wax will create a barrier between the metal and your sensitive tissues, helping to alleviate pain.
2. Rinse with saltwater
Saltwater has natural anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce swelling and soothe soreness in your mouth.
Simply mix one teaspoon of salt in eight ounces of warm water and swish it around in your mouth for about a minute. Spit it out, but don’t rinse with plain water afterward – the longer you keep the saltwater in your mouth, the better.
3. Take over-the-counter pain relievers
If you want to know how to relieve pain from braces, one of the most recommended is using over-the-counter pain relievers.
Sometimes, braces pain can be more intense and require something stronger than natural remedies. Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help alleviate discomfort caused by braces.
4. Use an oral anesthetic
Oral anesthetics are numbing gels that can provide temporary relief from brace-related pain. Simply apply a small amount of gel to the affected area and wait for it to take effect.
Be sure to read and follow the instructions on the packaging and consult with your orthodontist before using any oral anesthetics.
5. Apply a warm compress
A warm compress can help relax tense muscles and reduce pain in your mouth. You can use a hot water bottle or heating pad, but be sure to wrap it in a towel first so it’s not too hot against your face. Hold the compress against your cheek for 10-15 minutes at a time for relief.
This will allow you to get rid of the pain you’re experiencing while wearing your braces.
6. Chewing on ice
Chewing on a small piece of ice can help numb the pain from braces, as well as provide relief from swelling and inflammation.
However, be careful not to bite down too hard or chew for too long, as this can damage your brackets and wires.
7. Eat soft foods
Eating soft foods such as mashed potatoes, soup, yogurt, and smoothies can give your mouth a break from chewing and reduce pain caused by braces.
Avoid hard or crunchy foods that may cause discomfort while wearing braces.
8. Practice good oral hygiene
Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential when you have braces. Make sure to brush after every meal and floss regularly to keep your braces and teeth clean.
A clean mouth is less likely to experience pain or discomfort from braces.
9. Talk to your orthodontist
Last, but certainly not least on our guide to help you relieve pain from braces is simply talking to your orthodontist. If you’re experiencing severe or persistent pain from your braces, don’t hesitate to talk to your orthodontist. They can make adjustments or provide additional solutions to help alleviate the discomfort.
Your orthodontist is there to ensure that your treatment is as comfortable as possible, so never hesitate to reach out with any concerns.
When to Contact Your Orthodontist
If your pain persists for longer than a few days or you notice issues like sharp wires poking into your cheeks, don’t hesitate to contact your orthodontist. At Derek Damon Orthodontics, we’re here to help every step of the way.
Whether it’s providing adult orthodontic care, adjusting wires, fixing brackets, or offering additional tips, we’ve got your back.
FAQ
Q: What should I do if the pain from my braces is unbearable?
A: If the pain becomes unbearable, try combining some of the methods outlined above, such as using an oral anesthetic alongside a warm compress or taking over-the-counter pain relievers. However, if none of these options help, you should contact your orthodontist immediately for assistance.
Q: Why do my braces hurt after adjustments?
A: When your braces are adjusted, your teeth are being moved into a new position, which puts pressure on the surrounding bone and tissue. This pressure can cause soreness or discomfort for a few days.
Q: How do I numb the pain of braces?
A: Some effective ways to numb the pain of braces include using orthodontic wax, rinsing with saltwater, taking over-the-counter pain relievers, and using an oral anesthetic. Other options include applying a warm compress, chewing on ice, eating soft foods, practicing good oral hygiene, and talking to your orthodontist for additional solutions.
Embrace the Journey to a Perfect Smile
Dealing with braces can sometimes feel uncomfortable, but with the right strategies, you can manage the pain and stay on track toward achieving that perfect smile. From using orthodontic wax and rinsing with saltwater to consulting your orthodontist, there are plenty of solutions available when you’re wondering how to numb the pain of braces.
Remember, each small discomfort is a step closer to the smile you’ve always wanted. Stay patient, follow these tips, and don’t hesitate to reach out for professional support when you need it. Your future self—and your radiant smile—will thank you!
Schedule an orthodontic consult with us today to learn more about your orthodontic options and how we can help you achieve the smile of your dreams.