Getting braces is a big step toward a straighter, healthier smile. But sometimes there can be a bit of an adjustment period, especially in the beginning of treatment or after regular adjustments. If you're dealing with braces pain and want to ease the discomfort before your next visit to your orthodontist, you're in the right place. Whether you just got your braces in Winnipeg or you're a few months into treatment, here are some ways to manage discomfort at home before heading to Rykiss Orthodontics.

Why Do Braces Hurt?

Before jumping into solutions, it's good to understand why your braces are causing discomfort. The pressure from braces is actually a sign they’re working. They're slowly shifting your teeth into the correct position. That process naturally causes soreness, especially right after tightening or getting new wires.

Common reasons for pain include:

• Tooth movement
• Wires poking the cheeks or gums
• Brackets rubbing against the inside of your mouth
• General pressure and inflammation

Now, let’s look at how you can relieve that pain at home.

Quick Home Remedies for Brace Pain

1. Use Orthodontic Wax

If brackets or wires are irritating the inside of your mouth, orthodontic wax is your best friend. You can get it at any pharmacy or directly from your orthodontist in Winnipeg. Just pinch off a small amount, roll it into a ball, and press it onto the bracket or wire causing trouble. It creates a smooth barrier to protect your mouth.

2. Rinse with Warm Salt Water

This old-school remedy still works. Mix a teaspoon of salt into a glass of warm water and swish it around your mouth for 30 seconds. Do this a few times a day to reduce inflammation and promote healing of sores or cuts inside the mouth.

3. Try Cold Foods and Drinks

Cold helps numb the pain. Sip on ice water, suck on ice cubes, or eat soft cold foods like yogurt, smoothies, or frozen fruit. Avoid anything crunchy or hard while your mouth is sore.

4. Use Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers

Ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage the pain, especially right after an adjustment. Follow dosage instructions and don't rely on these every day—they're for short-term relief only.

5. Apply a Cold Compress

For soreness in your jaw or cheeks, a cold compress applied to the outside of your face for 10-15 minutes can reduce swelling and numb the area.

6. Stick to Soft Foods

When your teeth are sore, crunchy and chewy foods will just make it worse. Stick to:

• Mashed potatoes
• Soup
• Scrambled eggs
• Pasta
• Applesauce
• Oatmeal

Avoid:

• Nuts
• Popcorn
• Chewy candies
• Hard fruits like apples (unless cut into small pieces)

Oral Hygiene Tips to Reduce Irritation

Here’s how to stay clean and comfortable:

Use a Soft-Bristled Toothbrush

A gentle toothbrush reduces gum irritation. Brush after every meal if you can, and take your time around brackets.

Floss Daily (Yes, Really)

Flossing with braces is annoying, but it matters. Use floss threaders or special orthodontic floss picks to get between your teeth and around wires.

Rinse Often

Rinse with water or an alcohol-free mouthwash throughout the day to keep bacteria at bay and reduce soreness.

What Not to Do When You Have Braces Pain

Sometimes, to find relief, people do things that make the problem worse. Avoid these common mistakes:

• Don’t eat hard or sticky foods thinking it will "massage" the pain away.
• Don’t ignore poking wires hoping it’ll fix itself. Use wax or contact your orthodontist.
• Don’t stop wearing elastics (if prescribed) because they hurt. They're part of the process.

Staying Comfortable Long-Term

Brace pain usually gets better over time, but there are habits you can build to stay comfortable during the entire process:

Be Consistent with Oral Care

Healthy gums and teeth are less likely to get irritated. Stick to your brushing and flossing routine.

Follow Dietary Guidelines

Chewing gum, biting pens, or crunching on ice might feel like a relief, but it can damage your braces and make things worse. Stick to soft, braces-friendly foods.

Use Wax Proactively

Don’t wait until you have a mouth sore to use wax. If you know a bracket tends to rub, apply wax before it becomes a problem.

Attend All Your Appointments

Regular check-ups with your orthodontist in Winnipeg ensure everything is on track. They can adjust wires, replace broken parts, and keep things moving smoothly.

Final Thoughts

Brace pain is normal, but it doesn’t have to ruin your day. With some easy at-home care and a few smart habits, you can keep discomfort to a minimum. And if things go beyond what you can handle at home, Winnipeg orthodontists at Rykiss Orthodontics are here to help. Whether you’re starting your journey or well into your treatment, know that relief is always within reach.

Not sure if orthodontics is right for your child? Check out our detailed blog that breaks it all down for parents.