How to Make Orthodontic Treatment More Comfortable: Tips and Tricks

Orthodontic treatment is a significant step toward achieving a beautiful, healthy smile, but it’s not without its challenges. Whether you're wearing traditional braces or clear aligners, the process can sometimes be uncomfortable. The good news is, there are several ways to make your orthodontic experience smoother and more comfortable. In this post, we’ll share practical tips and tricks to help you manage discomfort, maintain oral hygiene, and make the most out of your treatment.

1. Get Comfortable with Wax

One of the most common complaints about braces, especially during the first few days, is the irritation they can cause to the inside of your mouth. The brackets and wires can rub against your cheeks and gums, causing painful sores. The good news is that orthodontic wax is a simple and effective solution.

How to use orthodontic wax:

• Break off a small piece of wax and flatten it between your fingers.

• Thoroughly dry the area you want to place it in and push it over the brackets or wires that are causing irritation.

• If the wax falls out or you accidentally swallow it, don't worry. It's safe. Just replace it.

This little trick can make a huge difference in your comfort, especially during the initial adjustment period.

2. Rinse with Salt Water

If you’re experiencing sore spots in your mouth or irritation after adjustments, a simple saltwater rinse can be a soothing remedy. Saltwater is a natural antiseptic, and it helps to reduce inflammation, clean any open sores, and promote healing.

How to do it:

• Mix 1/2 teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water.

• Swish the solution around your mouth for 30 seconds to a minute.

• Repeat this 2–3 times a day, especially after meals and before bed.

Saltwater rinses are a great way to maintain comfort while keeping your mouth clean.

3. Use Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers

In the first few days after getting braces or after an adjustment, it’s common to feel some discomfort as your teeth begin to shift. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen (Advil) or acetaminophen (Tylenol) can help alleviate this discomfort.

Tips:

• You can take the pain relievers an hour before your appointment for getting the bracers or attachments put on.

• Take pain relievers as directed on the packaging, usually within the first 2 days after the braces or attachments are placed.

• Don’t forget to eat before taking medication to avoid stomach irritation.

  
  

However, if the discomfort persists or becomes unbearable, be sure to consult your orthodontist for advice. This is extremely rare, so its not something you should be worried about.

4. Choose Softer Foods During Adjustments

When your braces are tightened, your teeth may feel sore for a few days. During this time, it's a good idea to choose softer foods that won't aggravate the soreness or put additional pressure on your teeth.

Soft food suggestions:

• Mashed potatoes

• Yogurt

• Smoothies

• Soup (make sure it’s not too hot)

• Pasta (well-cooked)

• Rice

• Boiled vegetables

• Eggs

• Oatmeal

Avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods that might cause the braces to break.

5. Cold foods/drinks

Cold food/drinks can help make the teteh feel a bit numb, providing instant relief.

Food/drink suggestions:

• Ice cream

• Yogurt

• Pudding

• Smoothies

• Milkshakes

Cold foods/drinks can be especially helpful in the first few days after getting braces or after having your braces adjusted.

6. Stay Hydrated

It’s important to drink plenty of water throughout your orthodontic treatment. Staying hydrated not only helps with the healing process but also ensures that your mouth stays moist and comfortable. A dry mouth can worsen discomfort or even lead to sores, so aim to drink water regularly.

If you wear aligners, be sure to remove them when drinking anything other than water to prevent staining and buildup of bacteria.

7. Maintain Good Oral Hygiene

The more comfortable you are with your braces, the less likely you'll be to develop oral health problems like plaque buildup, cavities, or gum disease, which can contribute to discomfort. Keeping your teeth clean is key to a more comfortable orthodontic journey.

Oral hygiene tips:

• Brush your teeth after every meal to remove food particles and plaque from your braces.

• Use a soft-bristled electric toothbrush whenever possible.

• Invest in an interdental brush or floss threaders to clean around the brackets and wires.

• Consider using an antimicrobial mouthwash to help reduce plaque and prevent gum disease.

Maintaining good oral hygiene will help you avoid discomfort caused by oral health problems and will keep your smile looking great.

8. Give Yourself Time to Adjust

It's important to remember that some discomfort is a natural part of orthodontic treatment. Your teeth and gums will need time to adjust to the pressure and changes brought on by braces or aligners. While the discomfort may feel intense in the beginning, it tends to subside after a few days as your mouth adjusts. It is also very normal to drool, and have your speech affected in the first few days as the mouth adjusts to the new components.

Tip:

• Be patient and gentle with yourself. If you experience persistent discomfort or difficulty eating, don’t hesitate to reach out to your orthodontist for advice.

  
  

9. Avoid Sticky or Hard Foods

When you're undergoing orthodontic treatment, certain foods can cause more discomfort or even damage your braces. Sticky foods like caramel, chewing gum, or toffee can stick to the brackets and wires, making them harder to clean and leading to additional irritation. Hard foods like popcorn kernels or nuts can also bend wires or loosen brackets.

Foods to avoid:

• Hard candies

• Ice

• Chewy or sticky foods (e.g., gum, caramel)

• Hard, crunchy snacks (e.g., chips, nuts, raw carrots)

Opt for softer alternatives until your treatment is complete.

Comfort is Key to Successful Orthodontic Treatment

While orthodontic treatment can come with its fair share of discomfort, following these tips and tricks will help make your journey a lot more comfortable. From using wax and saltwater rinses to eating soft foods and maintaining good oral hygiene, small adjustments to your routine can make a big difference in reducing discomfort.

Remember, the temporary discomfort you might feel now is all part of the process to achieve a healthier, more beautiful smile in the end. If you ever feel like something is off with your braces or experience excessive pain, don’t hesitate to reach out to your orthodontist for support.

Your Comfort is Our Priority

If you’re experiencing discomfort with your braces or want to discuss ways to make your treatment more comfortable, don’t hesitate to contact us. At Ocean Orthodontics, we're here to help guide you through every step of your orthodontic journey!