When you first get your braces, the inside of your mouth will likely become sore and irritated, because it won’t be used to the presence of metal braces in your mouth. Here are a few ideas and products that will help you cope with the irritation and discomfort you experience at the start of your orthodontic treatment.
Time
Time is the most significant factor when it comes to overcoming soreness caused by your braces. Your mouth will need time to adjust to the new conditions, plain and simple. After a couple of weeks, the inside of your mouth will get a bit “tougher” and the irritation will go away.
In the mean time, here are a few things to try, to help you deal with the pain.
Salt Water Rinses
Salt water rinses are a tried and true method for relieving discomfort caused by braces.
To make a saltwater rinse, add ½ a teaspoon of salt to a cup of warm water, and stir until the salt has completely dissolved. Take a mouthful of the salt water and swish it around in your mouth for about 30 seconds, then spit it out into the sink. Repeat this process until the salt water is gone. You can do this as often as you feel is necessary.
50% warm water and 50% hydrogen peroxide
This mixture has a similar effect as a saltwater rinse, and you can try it if saltwater doesn’t help.
Again, mix the liquids in a glass, and swish mouthfuls for about 30 seconds at a time, until the glass is empty.
Pain Relief & Barrier Products
To help reduce irritation while your mouth gets used to your braces, you can try some of the following products:
Dental Wax
Dental wax is the most popular choice for eliminating the discomfort caused by braces. It creates a barrier between the inside of your mouth and your braces, reducing friction and allowing any irritation or sores to heal.
To apply orthodontic wax, follow these steps:
- Wash your hands.
- Brush your teeth to make sure the area to which you’re going to apply the wax is clean.
- Take a small piece of wax (just enough to cover the offending wire or bracket) and roll it into a ball. This will make it more malleable and easier to apply.
- Press the wax onto the bracket or wire that is causing discomfort.
- Rub the wax into place. It should form a small bump overtop of the bracket or wire, preventing further friction.
Lip Protectors
Lip protectors are flexible “bumpers” that cover your braces from end to end, shielding your lips and gums from your braces.
GUM® Rincinol PRN
GUM® Rincinol PRN is an aloe vera-based mouth sore rinse that helps promote healing of irritation caused by braces. It also provides pain relief for up to 6 hours.
GUM® Canker-X
This aloe vera-based gel helps treat canker sores, mouth sores, as small cuts and abrasions by providing a barrier that both heals and protects.
Comfort Brace
Comfort Brace Protective Strips create a low profile barrier between your braces and the inside of your lips and cheeks. They look a lot like teeth whitening strips, and function to shield the inside of your mouth from your braces, giving it a chance to heal.