Patients of all ages have a tendency to worry about the pain levels associated with having orthodontic treatment. Some soreness is normal—but you shouldn’t expect excruciating pain! Wiesemann Orthodontics is going to tell you about this common concern and why you shouldn’t dwell on it too much.
Initial Soreness: A Normal Part of the Process
When your braces are first placed by Dr. Wiesemann, or when you start wearing new aligners, you might experience:
- Tenderness in your teeth and gums for a few days.
- Mild irritation on the inside of your lips and cheeks as they adjust to your new appliance.
- A sensation of pressure as your teeth begin shifting into their new positions.
This is completely normal as tooth movement is initiated. The discomfort typically subsides within a few days as your mouth adjusts.
Your Orthodontic Toolkit
There are several primary ways to help relieve discomfort, some of which are related to what you choose to eat (eating the wrong foods can be a common source of soreness).
- Try a Saltwater Rinse: A simple saltwater rinse can soothe irritation and promote healing. Just dissolve one teaspoon of salt in eight ounces of lukewarm water, swish it in your mouth for a few seconds, and spit it out. Repeat as needed!
- Use Orthodontic Wax: If brackets or wires are rubbing against your cheeks or lips, apply a small amount of orthodontic wax over the area to create a smooth surface.
- Take Over-the-counter Pain Relievers: If soreness ever becomes a nuisance, you can take an over-the-counter pain reliever (such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen) to ease it. Always follow the right dosage recommendations and consult with Dr. Wiesemann if you have intolerances to certain pain medications to find alternatives.
- Strictly Soft Foods: For the first few days after your braces have been tightened, stick to foods that are gentle on your teeth, like:
-
- Mashed potatoes
- Yogurt
- Smoothies
- Scrambled eggs
- Oatmeal
- Pasta
Avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods that can add unnecessary pressure to your teeth.
- Stay Hydrated & Avoid Acidic Drinks: Drinking plenty of water can help keep your mouth clean and reduce irritation. Avoid acidic or carbonated drinks like soda, which can worsen feelings of sensitivity.
- Loose or Irritating Wires: If a wire comes loose, give us a call for further advice. If it’s poking your cheek, cover it with your orthodontic wax until you can visit our office to get it repaired professionally.
- Sore Spots from Aligners: If your Invisalign trays feel too tight, try using chewies (soft orthodontic aids) to help them fit better.
Playing Sports or Instruments? No Problem!
For Athletes:
- Wear an orthodontic-friendly mouthguard to protect your braces during contact sports. Our team at Wiesemann Orthodontics can help you find a custom solution—remember that not every mouthguard works equally.
- If an impact occurs, check your braces and teeth for damage and contact us if there’s any damage.
For Musicians:
- If you play a wind instrument, it may take some adjustment, but using wax can help reduce irritation.
- Practicing frequently will help you adapt quickly.
Helping Kids Manage Soreness
Children’s orthodontics often requires a special approach (and our team are experts!). When it comes to your kids experiencing discomfort with their braces, we want to offer a few additional helpful tips.
- Reassure Them That the Pain is Temporary: Let your child know that braces pain is normal and only lasts a few days after getting braces or an adjustment. Most discomfort fades within a week, and they will continue to get used to the feeling of having braces as time goes on.
- 2. Encourage Chewing to Speed Up Adjustment: It may sound counterintuitive, but gentle chewing can help teeth adjust faster. We suggest soft, chewy foods like bananas or soft bread to help reduce soreness.
- Keep Their Mind Distracted: Distraction can make a big difference in pain perception, especially for kids. Encourage activities like watching a favorite show, reading, playing games, or listening to music to take their mind off the discomfort a little bit.
- Follow Up with Us for Any Issues: If your child experiences severe or long-lasting pain, or if there is a broken bracket or poking wire, contact your nearest Wiesemann Orthodontics office as soon as you can.
A Positive Path Forward
Just remember that no one who gets orthodontic treatment adjusts to it immediately—it has its ups and downs, but having an amazing team like ours on your side makes the experience much easier. We look forward to meeting you in Bowling Green, Russellville, Portland, or White House.