It is common to experience a few niggles with braces. Here are a few tips for managing these emergencies. After reading this if you are still unsure what to do- please contact our office and our friendly team on the phone will advise you!
Discomfort and Soreness:
It’s normal for a patient to have discomfort for a day or two after braces are adjusted but it can make eating uncomfortable. Please understand that this discomfort is temporary and normal! Have soft foods you can swallow easily, rinse with salt water and take some over the counter analgesics with food.
Good Oral Hygiene
Remember to brush after every meal. It is important to floss as well. All food and plaque should be removed at least three times a day. When your braces come off- you want your teeth underneath to be healthy and unmarked.
Food stuck around braces can lead to puffy gums, bleeding and white spots around the braces. It is hard to revert damaged teeth after braces- Prevention is the best way!
Eat Soft Foods
Hard crunchy or chewy foods can damage braces. Soft food is a good way to prevent emergencies from breakages! After the adjustment of your braces it is common to feel sore for a few days- eat soft foods like yogurt, soup, smoothies, and cut food up into small soft pieces. Eating these kinds of foods that don’t require much chewing will be kinder on your teeth and can help ease the pain. Remember no pain no gain!
The good news is as you get used to the braces the pain of adjusting the braces gets more manageable and you will feel it much less as treatment progresses
Irritation of Lips and cheeks
New braces can irritate the mouth and lips especially the first few days. It is good to cover any sharp edges with some Orthodontic wax. Remember the key is to dry the area first with a tissue and then press a small blob of wax over the area. Now you will be more comfortable! Replace it if it falls off. It is safe if you accidentally ingest it. A great tip to remember – if you can’t find your Orthodontic wax- a small piece of chewing gum can be used. Come and pick up more wax if you run out- it’s a great aid to have while you are settling in with braces!
Protruding wire
Sometimes the end of the wire can accidentally manage to dislodge and cause some irritation.
Use the end of a pencil to push the edge closer to the teeth so it’s not poking the cheek. Otherwise, you can use a tweezer to grab the end and push in back into the tube at the very back of your braces. If the wire cannot be moved into a comfortable position, cover it with relief wax. Contact us to set this right!
Wear Your Mouthguard
If you or your child play sports, we strongly encourage wearing a mouthguard. Mouthguards can greatly reduce the risk of painful injuries and broken appliances during games. At your next appointment, simply let us know you’d like a mouthguard. We can help you find the best one for your needs.
Take a photo and email us if you are not sure what to do or just pick up the phone and talk to us! We are here to help and make your journey to a beautiful smile as smooth as we can!
