Bothersome Braces: 3 Ways to Protect Your Mouth From Oral Sores

If you currently wear metal braces, you may have noticed discomfort forming on the inside of your cheeks. These oral sores can become problematic over time as the protruding brackets rub against these soft tissues. While some patients simply deal with it, others need help to find relief. You don’t have to live with daily soreness and discomfort. Instead, you can use these three tips to better protect your mouth throughout treatment.

Tip #1: Invest in Orthodontic Wax.

Asking your orthodontist about orthodontic wax is one of the best decisions you can make while undergoing orthodontic treatment. This special substance can make life much easier and achieving a straighter smile more enjoyable.

By keeping wax on hand, you can apply it to your brackets so that it creates a soft barrier between the metal and your soft oral tissues. Instead of suffering from the pain of the rubbing, you’ll instead feel the smooth wax. Just warm it up in your hands for easier placement.

Tip #2: Drink Plenty of Water.

Staying hydrated is not only important for your body as a whole but also for your mouth. While wearing braces, drinking a lot of water can help minimize your risk of developing oral sores because it keeps your mouth moist.

A dry environment makes it easier for brackets to rub against the soft oral tissues (i.e., your cheeks) and create a rough and unpleasant lesion. Consuming water will generate additional saliva, which helps neutralize harmful acids and protects against bad bacteria that might otherwise fuel the oral sores.

Tip #3: Gargle with Saltwater

If you do develop an oral sore or ulcer while wearing braces, make sure to rinse with warm saltwater. By mixing a half teaspoon of salt with one cup of warm water, you can reduce swelling and discomfort caused by the uncomfortable rubbing.

It’s best to hold the solution in your mouth for at least 30 seconds, as this kills infection-causing bacteria. Just be sure to spit it out and rinse thoroughly.

Other helpful solutions for treating these sores include taking over-the-counter pain relievers, placing a warm tea bag on the affected area, reducing your stress, and avoiding highly acid foods and beverages that can encourage ulcers to form.

Don’t let oral sores become normal while wearing braces. Take action to prevent them from the start so that you can move toward a straighter smile with ease.

About the Author
Dr. Susan Podray-Donovan is a board-certified orthodontist who works closely with Dr. Kylie Lewis and Dr. Karolina Grochowska to provide patients with effective orthodontic solutions. When an individual expresses concern about oral sores that have formed, she and her team can recommend safe and effective ways to address the problem so that a more comfortable experience is achieved. If you need to avoid or treat mouth ulcers or sores, visit our website or call (470) 589-4475.