For many people, the term “braces” is synonymous with pain and discomfort – and rightly so. Many braces wearers cosmplain of discomfort and toothache, especially during the initial few days or weeks of getting braces. While the pain associated with wearing braces is an indication that they are working – and moving your teeth into optimal alignment – there are ways you can minimize the discomfort. Thi article discusses various braces pain relief ideas that can help you make your orthodontic treatment experience a little less painful. 

How to Reduce Braces Pain?

  • Pain Medication 

Although frequent intake of over-the-counter painkillers is not recommended, you may take them occasionally to reduce the tooth pain, especially after getting your braces tightened. 

  • Diet Management 

Braces  make it difficult to chew hard and sticky foods but eating a hard diet may also result in increased tooth pain. Therefore, it is a good idea to stick to a softer diet such as soups, cereal, fruits, boiled vegetables, and mashed potatoes. 

  • Use an Icepack 

Cold treatment helps in reducing inflammation and the associated pain. Applying an icepack over the facial skin can help relieve the orthodontic treatment pain. 

  • Orthodontic Wax 

During the first few days, you may also feel pain because of the sharp edges of the brackets. If you’re looking for ways on how to deal with braces pain, here is another one; apply orthodontic wax, also called utility wax, over the sharp edges of the brackets. It will help reduce the discomfort. 

  • Topical Anesthetics 

If none of your braces pain relief ideas work, you may try using an oral anesthetic such as Abnesol or Orajel. These anesthetics, which usually come in gels, can be applied to the gums using a cotton swab or your fingers. The anesthetic gels numb the gums and reduce the braces pain considerably. 

  • Gum Massage 

Looking for natural pain relief for braces? Here is another one. Just like massaging your shoulders after strenuous exercise helps relieve the pain, the same can be used to relieve gum pain during orthodontic treatment. Gently rub your gums in a circular fashion using one finger. You will feel immediate pain relief. 

Although the tooth pain caused during orthodontic treatment may not be entirely avoidable, you can still reduce it by following the tips mentioned in this article. Slight pain and discomfort during braces treatment may actually be a good thing as it shows that your treatment is working. After all, there is no gain without enduring some pain!