Dealing with oral irritation from brackets is a typical concern for those new to braces. The braces components can chafe the soft tissues of your mouth, leading to painful sores, blisters, or irritation. While this gradually fades as your mouth adapts, there are practical steps you can take to reduce pain and accelerate tissue repair.
Start with dental wax. This gently moldable substance can be shaped into a pea-sized piece and placed directly on any irritating metal points. The wax forms a protective cushion between the wire and mouth lining, minimizing discomfort and stopping new ulcers from forming. Have wax readily available, especially during the first few weeks after getting braces.
Gargling with saline solution regularly can also help. Dissolve ½ tsp salt in 8 oz lukewarm water and swirl slowly for half a minute before discharging it. This not only soothes irritated areas but also decreases swelling and helps prevent infection in any minor ulcers.
Avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods that can exacerbate sores or loosen wires. Stick to soft foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, soups, and smoothies until your mouth feels more comfortable. Also, be careful not to bite your lips or cheeks, especially if they are already sore.
If a wire is poking you and wax isn’t enough, you can try using the eraser end of a pencil to gently push the wire away. Do this carefully to keeping the wire intact. If the wire is too long or won’t stay in place, contact your orthodontist. They can file it down or reposition it during your next visit.
Proper cleaning is critical. Brush your teeth gently but thoroughly after every meal to eliminate debris that can get stuck around the brackets and 鐘ヶ淵 歯列矯正 worsen irritation. Choose a gentle toothbrush and consider an alcohol-free mouthwash to avoid drying out your mouth.
The majority notice a dramatic reduction in discomfort the initial 7–14 days as their mouth builds tolerance. In the meantime, be calm and methodical with the recommended practices. If soreness persists or worsens or shows no sign of healing, schedule an emergency visit. Your well-being matters, and your orthodontist is there to help through every step of the process.
