How to Ease the Pain of New Braces

Modern braces are more comfortable than ever, but they can still cause some soreness, especially in the first few days. Here is how to relieve braces pain, straight from our orthodontic team.

Quick answer: To ease braces pain, take an over the counter pain reliever like ibuprofen, hold a towel wrapped ice pack to your cheek, rinse with warm salt water and stick to soft foods for a day or two. Orthodontic wax covers any bracket that rubs. Soreness usually fades within three to five days.

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What Causes Braces Pain?

Your braces use wires and brackets to exert gentle, consistent pressure on your teeth over time. The periodontal ligament and the bone beneath it start to move, positioning your teeth in the correct alignment.

Because braces apply pressure to your teeth and jaw, it’s normal to feel some tenderness for a few days following your first appointment. As your teeth get used to the feeling of braces, this pain should subside. You may also feel discomfort after each adjustment, which happens periodically during your treatment. The American Association of Orthodontists notes that this kind of soreness is a normal part of treatment and usually short lived.

How To Relieve Pain From New Braces

While this discomfort is temporary, it helps to have a few tools in your back pocket. Here are our top tips for braces pain.

Teen girl smiling comfortably a few days after getting braces

Pain Relievers

Over the counter pain medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen are very effective for decreasing pain and inflammation that may occur from braces. You could also apply an oral anesthetic like Orajel directly to the teeth and gums using a cotton swab or a clean finger. Be careful to follow all directions for the use of these products.

Ice Packs

Ice packs are great at reducing inflammation and numbing pain from braces. Wrap the ice pack in a towel and apply it to the outside of the mouth for 20 minutes.

Orthodontic Wax

During your first appointment, we send you home with a package of orthodontic wax. This specially made wax creates a barrier between the brackets and the inside of the mouth, reducing friction. Just remember to remove it before brushing your teeth.

Soft Food

After getting braces applied or adjusted, soft food is the way to go. Try soups, smoothies, mashed potatoes, bananas or other foods that won’t make your teeth feel overly sensitive. It also helps to know which foods to avoid with braces so you don’t damage a bracket and add to the soreness.

Maintain Oral Hygiene

Braces take a little more care to clean properly, since they have many more spots for food to get stuck. Left unchecked, this can cause tooth decay and gum inflammation, which makes existing braces pain more uncomfortable. Be sure to brush and floss twice a day.

Gargle Warm Salt Water

Heat helps too. A warm salt water rinse soothes discomfort and helps clean bacteria from around the teeth and gums. Swish it around your mouth for about 60 seconds and it can work wonders.

Massage Gums

A simple gum massage can also reduce pain and inflammation. Using a clean finger, gently massage the gums in small, circular motions.

Orthodontist checking a teenage patient's braces during an adjustment visit

When To Call Your Orthodontist

Normal soreness fades within a few days. If your pain is severe, does not ease with the tips above, or comes from a broken bracket or a poking wire, reach out. Those are signs of an orthodontic issue we should look at, not everyday adjustment soreness.

Braces Pain FAQs

How long does braces pain last?

Most braces soreness lasts three to five days after placement or an adjustment, then fades as your mouth adjusts. If it lasts longer than a week, contact your orthodontist.

What helps braces pain fast?

An over the counter pain reliever, a towel wrapped ice pack on the cheek and a warm salt water rinse give the quickest relief. Soft foods and orthodontic wax help you stay comfortable through the day.

Is it normal for braces to hurt after tightening?

Yes. Mild tenderness for a day or two after an adjustment is normal, since the wire is guiding your teeth again. The same tips that help new braces work here too.

Have More Questions? Contact Our Office Today.

Minor discomfort is a small price to pay for a lifetime of healthy, happy smiles. We have even more tips to help you adjust to life with braces, whether you wear metal braces or clear ones. Our team is here to help you enjoy a more comfortable treatment.

It’s time to get the smile you deserve. Schedule your free consultation today.

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