How to Manage Discomfort and Pain During Orthodontic Treatment
Starting your orthodontic journey is exciting — you’re on your way to a straighter, healthier smile! However, it’s common to experience some discomfort or soreness, especially during the first few days after getting braces or clear aligners, or after an adjustment. The good news is that this discomfort is temporary and manageable with the right strategies. At Vista Orthodontics, we want you to feel confident and comfortable throughout your treatment. Here’s a guide to help you manage pain and stay on track for a beautiful smile!
Why Discomfort Happens During Orthodontic Treatment
Orthodontic treatment treats malocclusion by gently moving your teeth into better alignment over time. This process puts pressure and strain on your teeth, gums, and jaw, which can cause some soreness, tenderness, or sensitivity. Common causes of discomfort include:
- Initial placement of braces, wires, or clear aligners
- Adjustments or new aligner trays
- Soft tissue irritation from brackets or aligner edges
- Tooth movement as your smile shifts into place
Although uncomfortable at times, these sensations are a normal part of orthodontic treatment and a sign that your smile transformation is underway!
Tips for Managing Orthodontic Discomfort
1. Over-the-Counter Pain Medication
One of the easiest ways to manage soreness is by taking an over-the-counter analgesic (pain relieving) drug, like ibuprofen (Advil) or acetaminophen (Tylenol). These medications can help reduce inflammation and ease the pain, especially during the first few days after adjustments or when you switch to a new aligner.
Tip: Always follow the dosing instructions on the label, and consult our orthodontists or your physician if you have any health concerns.
2. Rinse with Warm Salt Water
A warm saltwater rinse can work wonders for soothing irritated gums, cheeks, or tongue. Simply dissolve half a teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water, swish it gently in your mouth for 30 seconds, and then spit it out. Repeat a few times a day as needed for relief.
This natural remedy not only eases soreness but also helps reduce inflammation and promotes healing.
3. Use Orthodontic Wax
If you’re wearing braces, the brackets and wires can sometimes rub against your cheeks and cause irritation. Orthodontic wax creates a smooth barrier between your braces and your mouth to prevent sore spots.
To use it:
- Roll a small piece of wax into a ball.
- Flatten it slightly and place it over any area that’s causing discomfort.
Make sure to remove the wax before eating or brushing your teeth, and replace it with a fresh piece afterward.
4. Choose Soft Foods
After getting braces or aligners, your teeth may feel too sensitive for crunchy or chewy foods. Eating softer foods can make a big difference in your comfort level.
Great soft food choices include:
- Mashed potatoes
- Yogurt
- Smoothies
- Scrambled eggs
- Soup
- Pasta
Stick to soft, easy-to-chew foods for a few days until the soreness subsides, then gradually return to your normal diet (avoiding hard, sticky foods if you have metal or ceramic braces!).
5. Apply Cold Compresses
Cold therapy can help reduce swelling and numb pain. Try applying a cold compress or ice pack to the outside of your cheeks for 10–15 minutes at a time.
You can do this several times a day, especially during the first 48 hours after adjustments or after switching to a new aligner tray.
6. Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of water helps keep your mouth clean and your tissues healthy. A dry mouth can worsen irritation, so keep sipping throughout the day. Plus, cool water can have a naturally soothing effect on sore spots!
7. Practice Good Oral Hygiene
Keeping your teeth and braces clean helps prevent additional discomfort caused by plaque buildup, food particles, and gum inflammation.
Make sure to:
- Brush gently but thoroughly twice a day
- Floss daily (using special orthodontic flossers or a water flosser)
- Use an antimicrobial mouthwash if recommended
A clean mouth heals faster and feels more comfortable.
When to Call Your Orthodontist
Some discomfort is completely normal, especially after adjustments, but there are times when you should reach out to your orthodontist for help. Give us a call if you experience:
- Sharp or severe pain that doesn’t improve
- Poking wires that you can’t fix with wax
- Broken brackets or loose appliances
- Sores or swelling that worsen over time
** If you are experiencing extreme discomfort without relief, Vista Orthodontics offers emergency care for our patients.
FAQs About Orthodontic Pain
How Long Does the Discomfort Last?
Most patients experience soreness for about 3–5 days after getting braces, aligners, or adjustments. As your mouth adjusts to orthodontic therapy, the discomfort lessens. Many people find that each adjustment causes less soreness over time!
Are Aligners Less Painful Than Braces?
Clear aligners like Invisalign® usually are less irritating to the mouth because they don’t have brackets or wires. However, you may still experience some tenderness each time you switch to a new set of trays.
Can I Speed Up the Healing Process?
While you can’t speed up the orthodontic movement itself, following the tips above — like using pain relievers, eating soft foods, and keeping your mouth clean — can make the healing process feel faster and more comfortable.
Smile Comfortably with Vista Orthodontics!
At Vista Orthodontics, we believe that your orthodontic journey should be as smooth and comfortable as possible. If you ever have questions, concerns, or need a little extra help managing discomfort, our friendly team is just a phone call away. Give us a call at 866-507-4605 to schedule your complementary consultation — we can’t wait to meet you and help you achieve the confident smile you deserve!