It’s normal to feel some discomfort during the first few days after getting braces. As your teeth and mouth adjust, there are simple steps you can take to ease the soreness and stay comfortable.
Here’s a Canadian-friendly guide to managing braces discomfort.
🩺 What Causes the Soreness?
- Pressure on teeth from new wires or brackets
- Irritation from brackets rubbing against cheeks or lips
- Minor jaw tension as your bite begins to shift
This discomfort usually peaks around day 2–3 and fades within a week.
🪠 Tips for Relief
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers (ibuprofen or acetaminophen)
- Rinse with warm salt water (1 tsp salt in 1 cup water)
- Apply orthodontic wax to areas where brackets are rubbing
- Eat soft, cool foods like yogurt, applesauce, or smoothies
- Avoid crunchy or sticky foods that add pressure
🛌 Other Comfort Tools
- Use a silicone mouth guard for nighttime relief (if recommended)
- Try a cold compress on the outside of the jaw
- Keep lips moisturized with lip balm to reduce irritation
✅ When to Call Your Orthodontist
- If pain lasts more than 7 days
- If a wire is poking or a bracket is broken
- If swelling or signs of infection appear
Need help easing the transition into braces?
McLevin Dental is here to guide you
— from day one to your final smile reveal.