What to do if your teeth hurt when you wear braces

Many people have deformed teeth. The teeth may all protrude outward, or only a few teeth may be crooked. Deformed teeth can greatly affect the appearance. If the situation is serious, it may also cause facial deformities or chewing problems. Therefore, orthodontics is becoming more and more common. Wearing braces to correct tooth deformities is a very common method. So what should you do if your teeth hurt after wearing braces? What methods can relieve the pain?

1. Eat soft foods in the first few days.

Most orthodontic pain occurs during the first 24 to 72 hours after having braces. For the first few days, eat very soft foods that don't require much chewing until you get used to eating with your braces. Foods such as soup, applesauce, and mashed potatoes are good choices.

2. Eating frozen foods

Eat cold or frozen foods, such as ice cream. Ice cream will bring you comfort. You can also suck on ice cubes. Place an ice cube next to the area where you feel the most discomfort. The frozen cubes will help numb your mouth and reduce any inflammation that may occur. Many braces are heat-responsive, which means that eating hot foods can cause the braces to tighten, causing pain. Alternatively, you can place the teething ring in your baby's mouth to chew or rest. This will also provide some relief. Do not chew ice or cubes, as hard foods can damage the brackets and weaken the attachment to the teeth. You can also try drinking ice water.

3. Avoid acidic foods

Avoid acidic drinks and foods. For example, acidic foods and drinks containing citrus can make canker sores or other discomfort in the mouth worse.

4. Avoid sticky food

Avoid hard or sticky foods. Avoid eating certain types of food as this may cause your braces to crack, causing some irritation and extra expense. Avoid hard and sticky foods.

5. Painkillers

Take over-the-counter pain medication.

6. Gargle with salt water

The salt water will calm your mouth and treat any pain you may have from your braces rubbing against your cheeks. Repeat several times a day, especially during the first few days or if you feel more pain than usual.

7. Use orthodontic wax

Apply orthodontic wax to the mouth. Orthodontic or dental wax is used as a barrier between your braces and your mouth.

8. Toothpaste for sensitive teeth

Choose a toothpaste for sensitive teeth. Most brands of toothpaste make special toothpaste for sensitive teeth. These chemicals, which contain potassium nitrate, help reduce sensitivity by protecting the nerves in the gums.

9. Soft-bristled toothbrush

Use a soft-bristled toothbrush. The bristles on a toothbrush range from soft to hard. The softer the bristles, the gentler your brushing will be on your teeth and gums. Choose a toothbrush with soft bristles.

10. Use dental floss

Brush and floss after every meal. If you don't take care of your teeth, you may develop cavities, swollen gums, or other dental problems. Your teeth need extra care while you have braces. Take a travel toothbrush, mini toothpaste, and a small packet of dental floss with you when you go out so you're always ready to brush.

11. Loosening braces

Ask your doctor about loosening your braces. If your braces are painful, they may be too tight. Having tight braces does not necessarily mean they will work better.