5 Tips to Make Braces More Comfortable

Dental braces are very effective at straightening teeth. However, they can sometimes be uncomfortable, especially when you first get them fitted. Use these five tips to stop your braces from causing pain.

1. Brush Gently

After you get braces fitted, your teeth and gums are likely to be much more sensitive than usual. Using a toothbrush that has softer bristles can help.

You should also avoid pressing too hard when you brush teeth that have braces fitted. Electric toothbrush users can switch their brush into sensitive mode to decrease pressure on their gums and teeth.

2. Clean Between Teeth

Getting your teeth fully clean can be difficult when you have braces. Toothbrush bristles do not always reach between the wires of the braces to sweep plaque from the tooth surfaces. Furthermore, flossing can be impossible when there are wires in the way. As a result, plaque can build up on the teeth and cause painful gum problems.

Using an interdental brush is a good alternative to using string floss to clean between your teeth. You can poke one of these tiny brushes into the crevices between your teeth to clean away plaque and therefore prevent bacteria from building up in your mouth. The cleaner you can keep your teeth, the less likely you are to develop a painful case of gingivitis during your orthodontic treatment.

3. Use Mouth Rinse Every Day

Swishing mouthwash around the mouth is another good way to get rid of plaque and therefore reduce the risk of gum disease and cavities causing pain. A dentist can recommend a mouth rinse that is suitable for sensitive teeth.

4. Stick to Soft Foods At First

When you first get braces, eating can be a painful experience. Make meal times easier on yourself by sticking to soft foods, such as mashed potatoes, oatmeal, cooked vegetables, and stewed fruit. Wait until you get used to your braces to introduce harder foods, such as crunchy apples and nuts.

5. Get Your Braces Adjusted

Braces need to apply quite a lot of pressure to teeth to get them to move, which means it is normal for them to feel tight. However, braces should not leave you in constant pain. If braces pain leaves you struggling to eat, sleep, or concentrate on your daily activities, do not hesitate to contact your orthodontist. It is often possible to adjust braces so that they feel more comfortable.