How to Manage Braces Discomfort at Home

Starting orthodontic treatment is an exciting step toward a healthier, more confident smile—but it can come with some initial discomfort, especially when braces are first placed or adjusted. Soreness, tenderness, and minor irritation are completely normal and typically fade within a few days.

Still, that doesn’t mean you have to tough it out without relief.

If you’re new to braces or supporting someone who is, this guide will walk you through practical, effective ways to manage braces discomfort at home. From diet changes to oral hygiene hacks, you’ll learn how to ease soreness and stay comfortable as your smile transforms.

Why Braces Can Cause Discomfort

Braces work by applying gentle, continuous pressure to gradually shift teeth into better alignment. This movement affects not only the teeth but also the surrounding bone and tissues—so it’s no surprise that your mouth may feel tender after new adjustments.

Common causes of braces discomfort include:

• Tightness or pressure after adjustments
• Irritation from brackets or wires rubbing against cheeks or lips
• Soreness of the teeth or gums, especially during chewing
• Occasional wire pokes or bracket shifting

Discomfort is usually most noticeable during the first few days after getting braces or following a tightening appointment. But with the right care, it’s manageable—and temporary.

Tip 1: Use Orthodontic Wax

One of the most common sources of irritation is the metal brackets or wires rubbing against the soft tissues of your mouth. Orthodontic wax is a simple, effective way to create a smooth barrier between your braces and the inside of your cheeks or lips.

How to apply orthodontic wax:

1. Wash your hands and brush your teeth
2. Pinch off a small piece of wax and roll it into a ball
3. Press it directly onto the bracket or wire causing irritation
4. Reapply as needed, especially after eating or brushing

Orthodontic wax is safe, tasteless, and available at most pharmacies—or directly from your orthodontist.

Tip 2: Stick to Soft Foods (Especially After Adjustments)

During the first few days after braces are placed—or anytime they’re tightened—your teeth may feel sensitive or sore when chewing. Choosing soft, easy-to-chew foods helps reduce pressure on your teeth and prevents unnecessary discomfort.

Braces-friendly soft foods:

• Mashed potatoes
• Yogurt or smoothies
• Scrambled eggs
• Applesauce
• Oatmeal or cream of wheat
• Soft-cooked pasta
• Steamed vegetables
• Soup or broth
• Ice cream or frozen yogurt (in moderation)

Avoid crunchy, hard, or sticky foods that can aggravate soreness or damage your braces.

Tip 3: Try Salt Water Rinses

A warm salt water rinse is a classic, natural remedy that can soothe irritated gums, reduce inflammation, and promote healing of minor sores caused by braces.

How to make a salt water rinse:

• Mix 1/2 teaspoon of salt into 8 ounces of warm water
• Swish the solution around your mouth for 30–60 seconds
• Spit it out—don’t swallow
• Repeat 2–3 times a day, especially after meals

Salt water helps disinfect and calm the tissues in your mouth, and it’s especially helpful during the first week of wearing braces.

Tip 4: Use Over-the-Counter Pain Relief (If Needed)

If soreness is significant—especially during the first couple of days—over-the-counter pain relievers can help reduce inflammation and discomfort.

Common options include:

• Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin)
• Acetaminophen (Tylenol)

Be sure to follow dosage instructions and consult a healthcare professional if you have any concerns or medical conditions.

Pain relievers should be used sparingly and are usually only necessary in the early stages of treatment.

Tip 5: Apply a Cold Compress

Cold can help numb sore areas and reduce inflammation in the mouth and jaw. If your cheeks or jaws feel tender, try using a cold compress to ease the discomfort.

How to use a cold compress:

• Wrap a cold pack or bag of frozen peas in a towel
• Apply it to the outside of your cheek for 10–15 minutes at a time
• Repeat every few hours as needed

You can also suck on ice chips or enjoy a cold drink (without chewing ice) to relieve soreness inside your mouth.

Tip 6: Practice Gentle Oral Hygiene

Good oral hygiene is always important, but it’s especially critical when you have braces. That said, brushing and flossing may feel a little uncomfortable at first.

Brushing tips for sensitive teeth:

• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush
• Brush with slow, gentle circles
• Avoid pressing too hard on sore spots
• Consider a fluoride toothpaste for added protection

Flossing tips with braces:

• Use floss threaders or orthodontic floss picks to reach between brackets
• Consider a water flosser for gentle cleaning along the gumline

Keeping your mouth clean helps prevent inflammation and speeds up healing of irritated areas.

Tip 7: Avoid Foods That Make Discomfort Worse

Some foods can aggravate soreness or damage your braces—so it’s best to avoid them altogether, especially in the first week or two.

Foods to avoid with braces:

• Hard snacks — Popcorn, nuts, raw carrots
• Sticky treats — Caramel, taffy, gum
• Crunchy foods — Chips, pretzels, crusty bread
• Chewy meats — Beef jerky, tough steak
• Sugary items — Candy, soda (which can cause plaque buildup)

Steering clear of these foods not only minimizes discomfort but also protects your braces from breakage.

Tip 8: Give It Time

Perhaps the most important thing to remember is that braces discomfort is temporary. As your mouth adjusts, the tenderness fades—and most people find that after a week or two, they hardly notice their braces at all.

By staying patient, following your orthodontist’s instructions, and using the tips above, you’ll get through the adjustment period more comfortably and confidently.

When to Call Your Orthodontist

While mild discomfort is expected, certain symptoms may signal the need for professional attention. Contact your orthodontist if you experience:

• A wire that’s poking or out of place
• A broken bracket or loose band
• Severe pain that doesn’t improve with at-home care
• Swelling or signs of infection in the gums
• Persistent bleeding during brushing or flossing

Your orthodontic team can make small adjustments or provide relief tools to get you back on track.

Supporting Children or Teens with Braces?

If you’re a parent of a child or teen going through orthodontic treatment, you can help them manage their braces experience by:

• Stocking the fridge with soft snacks and meals
• Reminding them to apply wax or rinse as needed
• Checking for any visible signs of irritation
• Offering reassurance—it gets easier!

Understanding what to expect and how to ease discomfort can help kids adjust with less frustration and more confidence.

Braces Are Worth the Effort

While there may be a short learning curve when you or your child first gets braces, most patients find that the benefits far outweigh the early challenges. Braces do more than straighten teeth—they improve oral health, bite function, and overall confidence.

And with today’s at-home comfort strategies, the adjustment period is easier than ever.

Need Help Managing Braces Discomfort?

If you or your child is struggling with soreness or irritation from braces, Cape Fear Orthodontics in Leland, NC is here to help. We provide expert guidance, wax kits, hygiene tips, and support at every stage of your treatment.

We proudly serve Leland, Navassa, Belville, and the surrounding communities with compassionate care and a commitment to patient comfort.

Schedule your next appointment or reach out to our team with any questions about managing braces at home—we’re just a call away!