Investing in your smile is a decision you’ll never regret. Orthodontic treatment at Mack and Hansen Orthodontics located in Longview and just a quick drive from Marshall, Mount Pleasant, and Carthage Texas, will allow you to have the healthy, beautiful smile you’ve always wanted.
Throughout your smile journey you will be required to attend visits at our Longview office where your orthodontist, either Dr. Mack or Dr. Hansen, will make sure your braces are continually moving your teeth into the optimal position. Depending on your stage of orthodontic treatment, your wires may be replaced or adjusted to ensure proper alignment. These adjustments may cause you some temporary discomfort as your teeth move and your bite changed. Be sure to consult with your orthodontist, Dr. Mack or Dr. Hansen in Longview about the different ways to manage the soreness and irritation that can arise from orthodontic treatment. But start with these easy, at-home tips to get comfortable right away.
Ice Water or Soft Cold Treats
Just as ice or cold packs can be used to help soothe sore muscles or joints on your body, drinking ice water or snacking on cold treats can help reduce the soreness that may occur with orthodontic treatment. Initially after a wire adjustment or other orthodontic procedure is when soreness can be experienced. Ice cream, milkshakes, and smoothies are great examples of braces friendly cold treats that you can indulge in to help alleviate the discomfort!
Swish warm salt water
Your cheeks, lips, tongue, or gums may become irritated. Things that can cause this are new brackets, wires, attachments, aligners, or other orthodontic appliances placed at your appointment. Rinsing with warm salt water for 60 seconds can help provide relief.
Use your orthodontic wax
In addition to the warm salt water rinse, use the orthodontic wax that we give you to smooth any part that is bothersome. Orthodontic wax is easy to apply and will act as a physical barrier between your cheek and your braces allowing the sore to heal.
Eat softer foods
If you are experiencing any discomfort after your orthodontic appointment, avoid foods that require a lot of chewing. Instead, search for a softer food option, such as yogurt, soup, pasta, mashed potatoes, smoothies, or even ice cream.
Take over-the-counter pain reliever
If orthodontic discomfort persists, over—the—counter pain relievers can be used to alleviate soreness. These include Advil and Tylenol. Be sure to consult with your orthodontist, Dr. Mack or Dr. Hansen, about their recommendations of pain relievers for you or your child.
Be patient
The discomfort that arises from braces eventually will resolve as your teeth adapt to each adjustment. Your orthodontic journey might not always be pain free, but it will all be worth it when you achieve your healthy, beautifully aligned smile in the end.
For additional tips on how to relieve braces pain, consult Dr. Mack and Dr. Hansen.
