Soreness After the Braces Go On

Why braces make your mouth sore

Braces work by applying light, steady pressure to teeth, and the ligaments around each tooth respond to that pressure. The result is often a dull ache or a sense that your teeth are tender to bite on. This is usually most noticeable in the first couple of days and again after adjustments.

Separately, the brackets and wires are new objects against soft tissue. Cheeks, lips and the tongue can feel rubbed or scratched until they toughen up and you get used to the hardware. Knowing which kind of soreness you have helps you pick the right fix.

Everyday ways to ease tooth ache

For pressure-type tenderness, the most practical step is to change what you ask of your teeth. Choose soft, cool or room-temperature foods for a few days and avoid anything you have to bite hard. Cold water can feel soothing against a tender mouth.

If you are thinking about a pain reliever, ask your dentist, orthodontist or pharmacist what suits you, especially if you take other medicines, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or have a medical condition. Follow the label and their advice rather than guessing at amounts.

• Pick soft foods for the first few days
• Sip cool water through the day
• Avoid biting into hard or sticky items
• Ask a pharmacist before taking any pain reliever

Dealing with rubbed cheeks and lips

Rubbing sores come from friction, so the fix is to put a smooth barrier between the bracket and the tissue. Orthodontic wax does exactly that, and a small pea-sized piece pressed over the offending spot is the usual approach. Dry the bracket first so the wax sticks.

A warm salt-water rinse is a gentle option many people find comforting, as long as the water is not hot. Avoid very acidic, spicy or crunchy foods while the lining of the mouth is irritated, because they tend to sting and slow your comfort.

Keeping your teeth clean when your gums are tender

It is tempting to skip brushing when everything hurts, but food collects around brackets quickly. Use a soft brush, brush twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste, and angle the bristles gently along the gumline and around each bracket. Clean between the teeth once a day with the tools your orthodontic team recommends.

Bleeding gums can happen when cleaning is new or skipped. If bleeding persists, or gums look swollen and angry despite good cleaning, tell your dentist or orthodontist rather than waiting it out.

When soreness is not normal

Expect discomfort to settle rather than climb. Call your orthodontist or dentist if pain is getting steadily worse, is concentrated in one tooth, comes with swelling, or if a wire is poking and wax does not help. A bracket that has come loose should also be reported, even if it feels minor.

Mouth sores that do not heal, a bad taste that will not go away, or anything else that worries you are good reasons to book an appointment. Nobody on the dental team will think a question is too small.

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