How to Soothe Soreness After Getting Braces Affixed

Posted on February 20, 2022

You just got your new, amazing braces! You are so excited to show them off until—uh oh, is that discomfort? Yep, although getting your braces affixed for the very first time is exciting, it can also cause some discomfort. Rest assured that the soreness is completely normal. If you are really feeling the pressure of your new braces, here are three quick, easy solutions that can help you feel better in no time!

Pain Medication

There are plenty of over-the-counter options when it comes to managing pain. Your orthodontist may have recommended that you take some medicine prior to your appointment; but if you didn’t or forgot, it isn’t too late to take advantage of something with acetaminophen or ibuprofen now. Just make sure that you are taking medication responsibly and under the guidance of your orthodontist and/or doctor.

Hot or Cold

Depending on the type of pain you are feeling and your personal preferences, placing something hot or cold over your mouth can help relieve discomfort and reduce swelling. Gargle some warm water to soothe sore gums. Just make sure that you don’t use anything that is too hot or too cold, especially if your teeth are feeling extra sensitive to temperature.

Gentle Massage

If you are feeling up to it, a gentle massage of the gums can go a long way in reducing swelling and pain. First, apply some ice directly onto your gums to diminish any inflammation. Then, take a clean finger and rub it across your gums in gentle circles. It may feel a little uncomfortable at first, but you should feel the effects of the massage after a couple of minutes. Practice only gentle, low-pressure movements: Rigorous rubbing could only further irritate the area.

In the end, rest assured that the discomfort should only last a day or two after your braces have been affixed. The pain is merely a result of the braces doing their job, and your mouth will soon adjust to the new sensation. Nevertheless, if the discomfort doesn’t go away after a couple of days or you are experiencing severe pain, don’t hesitate to contact your orthodontist immediately.

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