La Habra/Chino Hills, CA – Anyone who has ever undergone orthodontic treatment can tell you it is not without a bit of discomfort along the way but the results are worth it. While you won’t feel any soreness immediately after having your braces put on, there may be some times when you feel a bit uncomfortable. These tips can help.

1. Brushing and flossing regularly and properly will also do wonders for any discomfort you may feel. There are a lot of places food debris can hide in brackets and wires and if you don’t take your time to carefully remove it, the gums and cheeks will become inflamed and uncomfortable. This is the number one culprit for discomfort seen in most orthodontic offices!
2. Eating soft foods after your braces are placed and after an adjustment will be helpful. Soups, mashed potatoes, and other soft foods will ensure your teeth don’t have to work overtime.
3. An over-the-counter pain medication can also help. The first few days after your braces are placed you may feel uncomfortable while your mouth adjusts and the same may happen after adjustment appointments. An over-the-counter pain reliever can even be taken an hour before an adjustment appointment so you’ll be more comfortable during and after.
4. Oral anesthetics can be rubbed directly on cheeks and gums that are sensitive. Your cheeks and gums may feel a bit sore in areas where some of the brackets and wires are rubbing or contacting them. Use a cotton swab to apply a bit of an oral anesthetic like Orajel directly to the area that feels uncomfortable.
5. Drinking a cold glass of water can help tremendously, especially if your orthodontist is using heat activated wires. If things get too intense or frustrating, get your favorite cold beverage, relax, and enjoy! This tends to be a good distractor for the younger patients.
6. Orthodontic wax can help in the first few days. It will take a bit of time for your mouth and tongue to get used to the feeling of the brackets and wires. The wax will protect your mouth and prevent irritation. It is very important to follow your orthodontist’s directions on how to place wax for it to be effective.
7. A warm saltwater rinse can help heal any sores or cuts you may have. It will take the edge off of the discomfort as well.

“The most important thing to remember when getting braces is that patience is key,” says Dr. Gire. “It may seem like your mouth is going to feel sore forever or that you will have to avoid all of your favorite foods, and neither is the case. Orthodontic treatment is only a few months out of a long life and the beautiful new smile you’ll get as a result will be well worth it.”

“Also, remember that certain types of braces and orthodontic treatment are more comfortable than others. We also have auxiliary devices that can virtually remove all discomfort during your treatment. We can ensure that even the most sensitive patient will be comfortable at Gire Orthodontics.”

It is important to note that you should note feel consistent pain throughout your treatment. There may be an initial period of discomfort once the braces are placed and then at adjustment appointments. If you feel consistent pain throughout your treatment it is important to discuss it with your orthodontist. You should only feel very mild discomfort that should only last a few days.

To discuss other ways to minimize discomfort during orthodontic treatment, call 562-690-1199 (Gire Orthodontics of La Habra) or 909-393-9911 (Gire Orthodontics of Chino Hills) and we’ll be able to help.