How to Alleviate Braces Pain Without Sobbing into Soup

Let’s be frank. When it comes to getting braces, the first question most people ask isn’t about the beautiful smile they'll have at the end. It's usually something along the lines of “Do braces hurt?” And if you’re reading this while gingerly sipping soup through slightly gritted teeth, you’re probably more interested in how to cure braces pain right now.

Here’s the reassuring truth: while some discomfort is completely normal after getting braces or following adjustment appointments, significant pain is actually uncommon once you’ve adjusted to wearing braces.

The good news? Any pain you’re experiencing doesn’t last long. And actually, it’s a positive sign that your braces are working effectively to move your teeth. Think of it as your teeth having a bit of a grumble about their new circumstances before settling into their improved positions. 

This guide will walk you through practical, expert-backed pain relief strategies to help you navigate your braces journey comfortably, without having to live on liquids alone.

Understanding the Discomfort: Why Braces Cause Pain

So why do braces cause discomfort in the first place? Understanding what’s happening in your mouth can help you feel more empowered to manage any pain.

There are two main reasons you might experience discomfort from braces:

First, when you initially get your braces fitted, your teeth are adjusting to completely new positions and the gentle pressure exerted by the brace system. It’s essentially your teeth getting acquainted with their new reality. This pressure on your teeth can feel uncomfortable or even painful during the first few days.

Second, during regular adjustment appointments when your orthodontist tightens wires or makes changes to your braces, your teeth need time to adapt to these new forces. The brackets and wires may also cause some irritation to your teeth and gums as they work to guide your teeth into their ideal positions.

This discomfort typically lasts for a few days before it settles down. Remember, the overall goal of your orthodontic treatment is to correct your bite, align your teeth, and improve your dental and oral health. Remember that this temporary inconvenience is working towards something really worthwhile.

Immediate Relief Strategies: Medications and Topical Aids

When you need quick pain relief for braces, there are several effective options right at your fingertips.

Over-the-Counter Pain Medicine

Your first line of defence is often over-the-counter pain relievers like paracetamol or ibuprofen. These medications are effective because they not only help reduce pain but also tackle inflammation that contributes to your discomfort.

Here’s how to use them effectively:

• Take your chosen pain reliever about an hour before an orthodontic appointment if you’re expecting discomfort.
• Always read and follow the dosage instructions carefully.
• Remember that these medicines aren’t meant for consistent, long-term use.
• They work best as temporary allies while your mouth adjusts to its new situation.

Topical Gels for Targeted Relief

Oral anaesthetic gels like Orajel or Anbesol can provide more targeted relief. These contain numbing ingredients like benzocaine or lidocaine that help desensitise your teeth and gums when applied directly to sore areas using a cotton swab or clean finger.

These gels are brilliant for those moments when you need to numb specific areas that are particularly troublesome. But the trade-off with them is that they offer relatively short-term relief, as they’re quickly washed away by saliva. Use them sparingly and follow the product instructions.

Soothing Home Remedies: Natural Ways to Ease Discomfort

Sometimes the most effective home remedies for braces discomfort are the simplest ones.

Cold Therapy

Cold temperatures are wonderfully good at reducing inflammation and helping to numb pain. Try applying an ice pack or cold compress to the outside of your mouth for braces pain relief – about 15-20 minutes at a time should do the trick.

You can also work from the inside out by sipping cold ice water or treating yourself to some ice cream (there’s finally a medical reason to justify that tub of Ben & Jerry’s!). The cold helps numb your mouth enough to relieve some of the pain and discomfort. Interestingly, very cold drinks can also temporarily soften initial brace wires, which reduces the pressure they exert on your teeth.

Warm Salt Water Rinse

This old-fashioned remedy is still one of the best. Mix a teaspoon of salt into warm water and gently swirl it around your mouth. The salt water helps heal any small sores or cuts in your mouth and on your gums, while also working to reduce inflammation. As an added bonus, this saline solution helps remove any trapped food particles that might be contributing to your discomfort.

Gentle Gum Massage

Give your gums a bit of TLC with a gentle massage. Using clean fingers, rub your gums in small circular motions as this can help relax swollen gums and improve circulation. For extra effectiveness, try applying an ice pack before massaging, but keep it gentle and brief.

Eating for Comfort: Your Diet During Braces Adjustment

What you eat can make a significant difference to your comfort levels, especially in those first few days after getting braces or having adjustments.

Embrace Soft Foods

During the adjustment period, stick to soft foods that won’t put additional pressure on your teeth. These gentle options include:

• Soups and broths
• Mashed potatoes and soft vegetables
• Creamy pasta and risotto
• Scrambled eggs and soft fish
• Yoghurt and smoothies
• Soft cereals and porridge

These foods are gentle on your teeth and don’t require the kind of heavy chewing that might exacerbate any soreness. Even if you’re wearing Invisalign, there’s still an adjustment period where soft foods can be beneficial as your teeth begin to shift.

Foods to Steer Clear Of

Avoid these troublesome foods during your adjustment period:

• Hard, crunchy foods: Nuts, raw carrots, crusty bread, pizza crusts and popcorn kernels can make your teeth feel more painful. They may even damage your fixed brace components.
• Chewy, sticky foods: Chewing gum, toffees and chewy sweets can distort wires and dislodge brackets.
• Sugary foods and drinks: These increase the risk of tooth decay, which is particularly important to avoid when you’re wearing braces.
• Excessive snacking: Try to resist this, especially initially, as the extra chewing can trigger unnecessary tooth pain.

Protecting Your Mouth: The Power of Orthodontic Wax

Orthodontic wax might look humble, but it’s genuinely one of your best friends during braces treatment. This special wax creates a protective barrier between the brackets of your braces and the inside of your lips, cheeks and gums.

The wax prevents the sharp edges of brackets from causing irritation and allows your soft tissues to heal if they’ve already been rubbed raw. Simply mould a small piece of wax over any irritating bracket. Your orthodontist will show you exactly how to do this and will likely provide you with plenty of wax to take home.

Remember to remove the wax before brushing your teeth, then reapply it afterwards. While it’s perfectly safe (and non-toxic if accidentally swallowed), fresh wax works best.

Maintaining Oral Hygiene: A Key to Braces Comfort

Here’s something that might surprise you: how well you clean your teeth with braces can significantly impact how much pain and discomfort you experience.

When food gets stuck on brackets and wires, it can lead to tooth decay and gum inflammation if not cleaned thoroughly. Gum inflammation develops quickly without proper cleaning and can add to your overall discomfort.

So make sure you brush your teeth three times a day after meals, spending at least 4-5 minutes each time. An electric toothbrush with orthodontic heads is ideal for effective cleaning around fixed brace brackets. You’ll also need to use additional tools like dental floss, orthodontic floss, or interdental brushes to clean under wires and between teeth.

Don’t forget to use a fluoridated, alcohol-free mouthwash once daily − and be gentle. Brushing too hard or using a toothbrush with coarse bristles can cause additional irritation. A soft-bristled brush is your best bet for keeping your teeth and gums healthy without adding to any soreness.

The Importance of Patience 

The most important tip for getting through the adjustment period? Patience. The pain and discomfort will only last a few days, and you’ll quickly become accustomed to the feel of your brace. Your mouth is remarkably adaptable. Before you know it, you’ll hardly notice your braces are there.

However, you should contact your orthodontist immediately if pain persists beyond a few days or actually worsens, if you experience significant swelling or bleeding, or if you notice any broken brace components. Never attempt to remove brace parts or cut wires yourself – always leave adjustments to the professionals.

Final Thoughts

While the initial adjustment period might present some challenges of wearing braces, remember the reward: a healthier, beautiful smile that will last a lifetime.

At Hampstead Orthodontic Practice, we’re committed to making your braces journey as comfortable as possible. Our team provides personalised guidance and support throughout your orthodontic treatment, and we conduct thorough examinations and X-rays before fitting braces to eliminate any underlying dental concerns.

Ready to start your journey to a confident smile, or have concerns about your existing braces? Get in touch with us today to schedule a FREE consultation. We’re here to help you achieve the beautiful smile you deserve – without the soup-sobbing dramatics.