Have you ever experienced the discomfort of a mouth sore while wearing braces? Maybe you’re currently grappling with one. If so, you’re likely familiar with the challenges they pose, making everyday activities such as chewing, talking, and even smiling painful endeavors. However, there’s good news! By incorporating a few key tips into your routine, you can effectively manage these sores and, in some instances, even prevent them from occurring altogether. To discover more about these strategies, continue reading!
How to Help Prevent Mouth Sores with Braces
It’s not uncommon for individuals wearing braces to experience mouth sores. However, there are several effective methods you can employ to greatly reduce the likelihood of developing them:
- Keep your mouth clean – Maintaining oral hygiene is crucial in the prevention of mouth sores. This begins with thorough brushing for a duration of two minutes after every meal and extends to biannual visits to your dentist for comprehensive checkups and cleanings.
- Drink plenty of water – Were you aware of the antibacterial properties present in saliva? Additionally, dry mouth can exacerbate the discomfort of mouth sores, intensifying the irritation. However, there’s a simple remedy: staying hydrated by drinking ample water not only promotes saliva production but also combats dry mouth effectively, potentially averting the worsening of mouth sores.
- Use dental wax – Given that the metal brackets and wires of your braces pose a risk of injuring the delicate tissues in your mouth, safeguarding your gums, cheeks, and lips is paramount. The positive news is that utilizing a small amount of dental wax can provide significant protection and alleviate discomfort.
How to Manage Mouth Sores with Braces
When faced with the emergence of a mouth sore, there are several strategies you can employ to alleviate discomfort effectively. Consider implementing the following recommended practices as a helpful starting point:
- Rinse with salt and warm water – While salt and water are commonplace household items, their combination produces a potent natural disinfectant. Simply dissolve salt in warm water, mix thoroughly, and rinse. This simple remedy not only alleviates swelling but also effectively eradicates bacteria, providing relief.
- Avoid sugary and acidic foods – To put it simply, sugary and acidic foods and drinks can worsen mouth sores. It’s wise to completely steer clear of soda, ice cream, and similar treats. Instead, prioritize vitamin-rich foods, such as oatmeal, eggs, and yogurt.
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers – For severe mouth sores, consider using an over-the-counter pain reliever. This will help ease discomfort while you follow other helpful tips, such as staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
Mouth sores can really disrupt your daily life with their discomfort. But fear not! By keeping the tips mentioned above in mind, you can greatly reduce the likelihood of experiencing them.
About the Practice
At Sensational Smiles Orthodontics, our exceptional team is dedicated to a vital mission: delivering superior treatment that yields stunning results! We prioritize your comfort and effectiveness in every visit to our chair. That’s why we pay attention to the finer details, such as educating patients on managing and preventing mouth sores with braces. If you have any inquiries about orthodontic care or wish to book an appointment, feel free to explore our website or contact our office at (920) 748-7130.
