Natural Tips to Reduce “Braces Pain” 

By Guest Author, Sharon Williams 

The fear of pain and discomfort is common when you decide to get dental braces. Your teeth might hurt, your gums might hurt, but there are some proven ways to get relief from “braces pain”.

Getting braces is a bit painful immediately after the orthodontist puts them on and also when the wires are tightened. But if you follow a good dental hygiene routine, you can get relief from the pain quickly. 

Reduce The Pain Fast

The following are the ten best tips for relieving pain due to wearing braces. 

1. Oral Anaesthetics – It’s normal for your gums to become sensitive after getting braces. Applying an oral anesthetic to the sensitive area can help. It will help desensitize your gums so that you feel less discomfort.
2. Painkillers – If you need over-the-counter pain medicine, then choose one that is also anti-inflammatory such as Advil® (Be sure that you read the instructions carefully.)  It is best to take an hour before you have an orthodontic appointment, so you feel less discomfort during the appointment. However, if you are looking for a more natural approach that is effective and healthier, then turmeric is an excellent and healthier alternative. 
3. Oral Hygiene – After getting braces, your teeth need extra care. Maintaining good oral hygiene is easy and can be done in 4 simple steps:

• • Brush – Brushing with braces requires extra effort. Brush your teeth in a circular motion and make sure you get the tops, the fronts, and the back of your teeth.
  • Floss – Plaque loves to hide in the gums. So, when you floss your teeth, make sure you don’t forget the gums.
  • Rinse – You don’t want to swallow any toothpaste, so be sure to rinse thoroughly.
  • Mouthwash – To help you choose the best natural mouthwash, check out 3 All-Natural Mouthwashes + 3 DIYs to Help Break Your Listerine Habit by Mark Burhenne, DDS.

Below is an excellent video about oral hygiene with braces. 

4. Ice Pack – For instant pain relief due to braces, apply an icepack or gel icepack to your face. The cold temperature will reduce the inflammation and will also numb the mouth. 
5. Coldwater/Ice  – This works quite similar to the ice pack. Swishing a bit of cold water or allowing some ice to melt in your mouth will briefly numb the mouth and help reduce inflammation. How about a water popsicle? 
6. Rinse Mouth with Salt Water –Dissolving salt in water is also effective at reducing pain and inflammation. Gargling with warm salt water will help heal minor cuts you might have on your gums from the braces. 
7. Frozen Teething Rings – Who says teething rings are just for infants? Teething rings are very effective for combatting braces pain. Make sure it is frozen, so when you chew on it, it will diminish the pain.
8. Avoid Hard Foods – Avoid foods that are hard to chew. Be aware that gumming and/or crunchy food can stick between your teeth or behind the braces. Instead, consume soft foods such as soup, cereal, and mashed potatoes during the adjustment period.
9. Orthodontic Wax – Orthodontic wax is a special wax for braces that protects your gums and the inside of your lips and cheeks from the braces by creating a barrier. Make sure to read the instructions carefully before applying it.

And lastly, 10. Give it Time – Braces pain may be hard to bear at times, but remember that it’s only temporary. All of these methods mentioned will help subside the pain. So be patient because, in the end, it is  worth it!