We’ll tell you how to deal with the drawbacks of braces or brackets, particularly during the early days

A beautiful smile is more than a question of appearances… it is a sign of health. Orthodoncy is a potential solution for thousands of people who want to straighten crooked teeth, correct abnormalities of the jaw or solve chewing problems.

Until a few years ago, orthodoncy was associated with childhood and adolescence, but that situation has changed. Around 60% of the patients at most specialised clinics are adults.

According to the Smile report, published by the Spanish Orthodontic Society, 80% of patients have orthodontic appliances to improve the health and appearance of their teeth. Among the treatments available to align and straighten crooked teeth, braces and brackets are among the most commonly chosen by patients.

However, these metal devices can be uncomfortable, particularly when they have just been fitted, causing small blisters, inflamed gums and sensitive teeth. Although most of these problems disappear after two or three weeks (when there is less pressure on the teeth), there are some simple tips that are worth remembering.

Six tips for relieving pain

1. Avoid hard foods

Your teeth become more sensitive while you are wearing braces, because they are changing position, which can be uncomfortable and painful. Don’t eat hard foods, such as nuts, which may loosen the apparatus. Stay away from sweets and chewing gum.

2. Soft textures

Change your diet, paying attention to the texture and consistency of the foods you choose. Choose things that are soft and smooth for your teeth, such as purées and cooked vegetables. This will put less strain on your teeth and relieve the pain during the first few days. Before eating fruit and vegetables, peel them and cut them into small pieces.

3. Floss your teeth

Experts say that flossing can help to relieve pain, particularly during the first week of wearing braces when irritation, wounds and blisters can appear on the lips, the inside of the cheeks and on the tongue, due to rubbing.

4. Don’t eat acidic foods

It is not advisable to eat overly acidic foods like pineapple, citrus fruits, vinegar and tomatoes, which delay wound healing and increase the pain. Spicy, hot foods, rough products (like bread) and rice can all be uncomfortable.

5. Take your time

Don’t hurry your meals. Cut your food into small portions and chew carefully. If it hurts, have a drink with some ice or choose an ice cream for dessert. The cold will help to relieve the discomfort.

6. Be rigorous with dental hygiene

Braces cover a large part of the surface of the teeth, which may make them difficult to clean. It is important to clean your teeth very carefully and to brush after every meal, paying attention to the interdental spaces. Use a soft toothbrush and, if possible, an interdental brush and a special gum care toothpaste. To finish, it is a good idea to use an antibacterial mouthwash.

Remember to keep your mouth clean and to see your orthodontist regularly and a general dentist once a year. That way you’ll get the smile of your dreams without running any risks.

This post is also available in: Italian