If your dentist is helping you realign your smile with braces, you'll need to go in for regular adjustments. This means your dentist will tighten the wires of your braces, which can cause some discomfort, as your mouth adjusts to the new position. To ease this pain, here are a few suggestions you can try at home.

5 Ways to Relieve Pain After Having Braces Tightened

1. Ice

An ice pack applied to the cheek or lip can help soothe and numb the area, as well as reducing any swelling. This is a simple, non-invasive option and should be your first step in addressing pain.

2. Cold Water

Similarly, a glass of ice water can cool and numb your jaw and gums. Although ice water won't stay cold as long as actual ice once it's in your mouth, this method helps get closer to the actual root of the issue, providing comfort.

3. Warm Rinse

If cold doesn't alleviate your mouth pain, warmth sometimes can. Mix some table salt into a glass of warm water, then swish and gargle the mixture in your mouth, as you would with regular mouthwash. This can soothe your gums, especially if there are cuts or sores on them from the wires of the braces.

4. Over the Counter Products

A typical pain reliever will lessen the discomfort of your braces for the first day or two after tightening. You might also be able to find an oral anesthetic, which you can apply directly to the sore area.

5. Avoiding Irritation

As you cope with dental discomfort, make sure you're not doing anything to make it worse. Chewing on hard foods puts pressure on your teeth and gums, which may increase soreness. Stick to soups and soft foods, as they are a much better choice while you're recovering.

If you're concerned your braces are too tight or there is another cause for your toothache, visit dentist Ronald L. Rasmussen, DDS in Sacramento, CA. Serving the Sacramento County area, Dr. Rasmussen and his team offer a range of both general and cosmetic dentistry services, from simple exams and teeth whitening to in-depth treatment for tooth decay. As a member of the American Dental Association and California Dental Association, Dr. Rasmussen is committed to providing comprehensive care to both children and adults. To schedule an appointment with the dentist, call (916) 689-1100 or send a message online.