Braces are now more comfortable, and durable than ever. Fitting into braces for the first and hopefully, only time, however does take some getting used to.

To alleviate any discomfort here are 10 tips

•  A warm salt water rinse can combat some of the pain associated with having new braces. Warmer water is able to sooth the gums as well as teeth. When teeth are being straightened, warm or even salt water can go a long way in helping the irritation caused by braces. 
• As your gums get used having the braces rubbing against them, orthodontic wax can be extremely beneficial.  Orthodontic wax is made of silicon and creates a malleable barrier between your gums and the metallic orthodontic appliance. Dr. Hough has wax available at the office for patients.  Do not hesitate to ask for some!
• Orajel gel can be applied directly to the sore areas in the mouth and will numb the area affected by the metallic appliance.  Dr. Hough also has Orajel at the office, but you can also find Orajel at your local pharmacy.
• Much the same way as heat can have a pain relieving effect, so can ice! Ice can reduce swelling as well as have a numbing affect.  Applying an ice pack to the region of the face that is sore can give some relief.
• Drink ice water.  This has the same effect as a cold ice pack, except directly in your mouth!
• Dental hygiene definitely plays a role in discomfort caused by braces. By practicing positive health techniques like brushing three times a day and flossing twice a day, on is able to care for any blemishes caused by orthodontic appliances, and discomfort will be seen at a lower rate.
• Eating foods that aren’t harsh on your hardware can go a long way.  Avoid the foods on the no no list, but for the first few days after getting your braces on, choose soft foods to eat.  Avoid foods that may displace or aggravate orthodontic appliances.
• Advil. The all important Advil.  Advil can reduce the inflammation caused by irritation and can also dull the pain caused by adjusting teeth.
• Gum massage. Gently massage your gums with your clean fingertips in a circular motion, being careful to avoid rubbing your inner mouth with the sides of your brackets and wires.
• Patience. We all know that patience is a virtue.  In the majority of cases, pain generally subsides on its own within a relatively short time-frame. Time is what is needed to get used to the new appliance (s) in your mouth or after getting your braces tightened.

If your pain continues, or if you have any questions regarding your treatment, call Dr. Hough’s office at 636.391.1959.