If you are thinking about getting braces and are afraid of the pain that comes after adjustment, you need to discover these tricks! In this blog, we will share with you how to relieve brace adjustment pain as well as show you how to get braces in Yorktown Heights.
Pain After Brace Adjustment
There are many benefits to getting deciding to seek treatment for teeth misalignment. As you know, one of the most common ways is to get metal braces.
While metal braces are very efficient in correcting teeth alignment, many patients are afraid to get them because of the pain it may cause.
Contrary to popular belief, the pain you feel after getting braces is not caused by the braces themselves. It is actually caused by your teeth moving and adjusting to the braces.
The good news is that there are ways to relieve this pain! Here are some of the most effective ways:
#1 – Massaging Your Gums
One of the best ways to reduce braces-related pain is by massaging your gums. This will help increase blood flow to the area and will also reduce inflammation.
To massage your gums, simply use your fingers to rub them in a circular motion. Do this for about two minutes or until you start to feel relief.
You can also use a warm washcloth to massage your gums. Simply dampen the washcloth in warm water and then rub it over your gums. Do this for about two minutes or until the pain starts to subside.
#2 – Using an Ice Pack
You may also want to try using an ice pack to relieve pain. The cold temperature will help numb the area and reduce inflammation.
To use an ice pack, simply wrap it in a towel and then hold it against your cheek for about five minutes. Repeat this process every few hours or as needed.
If you don’t have an ice pack, you can also use a bag of frozen peas or corn. Just make sure to wrap it in a towel before applying it to your skin.
#3 – Drink a Cold/Iced Beverage
Similar to using an ice pack, drinking an ice-cold drink will help numb the area and can also help reduce inflammation.
Just make sure to drink slowly and carefully to avoid damaging your braces. You may also want to use a straw to bypass your teeth altogether.
#4 – Gargling with Mouthwash or Salt Water
Gargling with mouthwash or salt water can also help relieve braces pain. The mouthwash will help kill bacteria and the salt water will help reduce inflammation.
To gargle with mouthwash, simply mix together equal parts water and mouthwash. Swish it around in your mouth for about 30 seconds and then spit it out.
To make a salt water solution, mix together one cup of warm water and one teaspoon of salt. Swish it around in your mouth for about 30 seconds and then spit it out. Repeat this process several times a day or as needed.
#5 – Applying Local Anesthetic Cream
If the pain is really bad, you may want to try applying a local anesthetic cream. This will help numb the area and provide relief.
To apply the cream, simply follow the instructions on the package. Most creams need to be applied for about 30 minutes before they start working.
You can also ask your orthodontist for a prescription cream. They will be able to provide you with a stronger option that can provide relief for up to six hours.
#6 – Taking Over-the-Counter Pain Killers
If the pain is really bad, you may also want to take over-the-counter painkillers. Just make sure to follow the instructions on the package and only take the recommended dosage. You should also avoid taking painkillers on an empty stomach as this can cause nausea.
#7 – Biting Frozen Teeth Rings
One of the strangest but most effective ways to relieve braces pain is by biting frozen teeth rings. These are basically small plastic rings that you freeze and then bite into.
The cold temperature will help numb the area and the biting action will help massage your gums. You can find these rings at most drugstores or online.
#8 – Eating Soft Foods
If your braces are really bothering you, you may want to stick to soft foods for a few days. This will help reduce the amount of time that your braces are in contact with your teeth and will give your gums a chance to heal.
Some good soft food options include:
- Applesauce
- Yogurt
- Mashed Potatoes
- Ice Cream
- Jell-O
- Cooked Vegetables
- Soup
- Macaroni and Cheese
Braces in Yorktown Heights
If you’re still considering braces or are looking for an orthodontist in Yorktown Heights, be sure to check out our website! We offer braces for both children and adults, as well as Invisalign.
Invisalign is another teeth straightening option that uses clear, removable aligners instead of metal braces. This is a great option for adults who want to straighten their teeth without anyone knowing.
If you want to check out Invisalign in Yorktown Heights, Invisalign in Montrose, or Invisalign in Westchester County area, contact us to schedule a consultation! We also cater to patients who want to get braces in Croton-On-Hudson and braces in Putnam County area.
Dr. Barry Glaser, our esteemed orthodontist, continuously strives to provide excellence in orthodontic treatments and uses cutting-edge technology to provide the best service possible. You can expect exemplary treatment from Dr. Glaser as you seek a more comfortable and beautiful smile from our office.
We’re looking forward to getting you the smile of your dreams!