How to Stop Braces From Being Uncomfortable While Eating

When braces are first put on the teeth, and subsequently when they are tightened, discomfort may result. Pain and discomfort may come from the teeth moving, or from the metal in the brackets and wires rubbing against the tissue of the lips and cheeks. The patient may have difficulty eating since the teeth and mouth are feeling uncomfortable. There are several easy remedies than can make braces more comfortable during eating.

Things You'll Need

• Warm water and salt
• Soft foods
• Toothpick
• Dental wax
• Topical analgesic

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Instructions

How to stop braces from being uncomfortable while eating

• 1

  Eat soft foods such as soups and puddings when braces are particularly uncomfortable after being adjusted.

• 2

  Wash the mouth with a mixture of warm salt and water to sooth the tissues in the mouth being rubbed by metal brackets and wires.

• 3

  Use a toothpick to dislodge any food that may have gotten stuck in the braces. Stuck food can put pressure on the wires causing discomfort.

• 4

  Place dental wax on brackets that are irritating cheek and lip tissue. The wax will protect the tissue so that the metal is no longer rubbing the sore area. The improved comfort will make eating easier.

• 5

  Use a topical analgesic on areas where cheek or lip tissue has been irritated by the braces. The numbing of the analgesic will reduce pain so that eating is more comfortable.