Feeling a little sore in your mouth after a trip to the orthodontist to tighten your braces? There is nothing to worry about! In fact, it is a sign that your teeth are actively shifting towards their new positions and that your treatment is working.
Depending on each individual, some may experience slight discomfort for the 1st to 3rd day while others may not even feel anything at all.
If you fall within the first category and are wondering if there are any useful things you can do to help relieve the soreness or pain – there is!
Check out these useful tips that can help you cope better with sore teeth after braces tightening.
Over-the-Counter Pain Medication
This is one of the most effective methods of pain relief. If you know that you experience significant discomfort after every trip to the orthodontist, make sure you plan ahead and take some over-the-counter pain medication prior to your appointment.
Tip: Take it around an hour beforehand and avoid taking the medication regularly – only for the day of your brace’s adjustment.
Oral Pain Reliever
Not a fan of pills? Another effective alternative would be oral anesthetic gels that you can apply directly on the sensitive parts of the teeth or gum to help it numb the area so that you do not feel the moving of the teeth so acutely.
Downside: Some of these gels may taste a little bitter so it may not be for everyone.
Ice Pack for Pain Relief
Want a more natural pain-relieving method? Well, you can opt for the convenient and simple method of icing your cheeks or jaw area near the site of soreness. The coldness of the ice pack can help not only to numb the area but also reduce inflammation overall.
Tip: Make sure you only ice each area for less than 10 minutes at a go to avoid ice burns or frostbite.
Massage Your Gums
Help improve your blood circulation and relieve soreness in your gum area by gently massaging them in small circular motions over the area of soreness or along your gum line.
This helps nutrient-rich blood rush to the area to help improve healing in the gum tissues.
Stick to Soft Foods
The few days after a session of tightening is when your teeth are the most sensitive, hence sticking to soft foods that do not require you to bite with effort or minimize pressure on the teeth would be ideal.
Stay on the safe side and go for the super-soft types of food for your diet in the few days immediately after your appointment. Go for food like mashed potatoes, smoothies, soups, and the like.
Need a Friendly Orthodontist to Consult on Your Dental Issues?
Dunegan & Cole Orthodontics is your friendly Gainesville Virginia orthodontist who can help on this exciting journey!
Call us today to get started 703.753.4777 or request a complimentary consultation online.
