Getting braces is an exciting step toward a healthier, straighter smile, but it’s normal to experience a few bumps along the way. One of the most common challenges for new braces wearers is irritation inside the mouth. Brackets and wires can rub against your cheeks, lips, or tongue, sometimes causing small ulcers or sore spots.
The good news is that these sores are usually temporary and become less common as your mouth adjusts. With a few simple strategies, you can manage discomfort and help prevent future irritation.
Why Do Braces Cause Mouth Sores?
When braces are first placed—or after they’re adjusted—your brackets and wires may rub against the soft tissues inside your mouth. This repeated friction can irritate the delicate lining of your cheeks, lips, or gums, leading to small, painful sores.
Fortunately, your mouth is remarkably adaptable. Over time, the tissues naturally become more resilient, and many patients notice that irritation decreases significantly after the first few weeks of treatment.
Use Orthodontic Wax for Protection
Orthodontic wax is one of the easiest and most effective ways to reduce rubbing from brackets and wires. Simply dry the area around the bracket that’s causing discomfort, roll a small piece of wax into a ball, and gently press it over the irritating spot.
The wax creates a smooth barrier between your braces and your soft tissues, helping the sore area heal while preventing additional friction. Replace the wax as needed, especially after meals or brushing your teeth.
Keep Your Mouth Clean
Good oral hygiene plays an important role in helping mouth sores heal. Brushing carefully around your braces and flossing every day helps reduce bacteria that could slow healing or contribute to irritation.
You may also find relief by rinsing your mouth with warm salt water several times a day. A simple saltwater rinse can soothe irritated tissues, reduce inflammation, and promote healing without requiring any special products.
Watch What You Eat
Certain foods can make mouth sores feel even more uncomfortable. Spicy, acidic, salty, or crunchy foods may sting irritated tissues and delay healing.
Instead, choose softer foods while your mouth recovers. Yogurt, mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, smoothies, pasta, oatmeal, and soups are often gentler on sore areas and more comfortable to eat after orthodontic adjustments.
Know When to Contact Your Orthodontist
Some soreness after getting braces or having them adjusted is completely normal. However, if a wire is poking your cheek, a bracket has come loose, or a sore becomes unusually large, painful, or doesn’t heal after a couple of weeks, it’s a good idea to contact your orthodontist.
In many cases, a quick adjustment can eliminate the source of irritation and make your braces much more comfortable.
Comfort Improves with Time
While mouth sores can be frustrating, they’re usually a temporary part of the orthodontic journey. As your mouth adapts to your braces, irritation often becomes less frequent, and managing occasional sore spots gets much easier.
By using orthodontic wax, practicing excellent oral hygiene, choosing gentle foods, and keeping up with your orthodontic appointments, you can stay comfortable while working toward the beautiful smile you’re building.
A little patience and proper care can make your braces experience much more comfortable from start to finish.
About the Practice
The team at Dr. Jessica Cohen Orthodontics is dedicated to helping patients of all ages achieve healthy, confident smiles through personalized orthodontic care. Dr. Cohen offers traditional metal braces and provide ongoing support to help patients stay comfortable throughout treatment, including guidance for managing common concerns like mouth sores and irritation.
Call us at (224) 427-6800 or schedule your appointment online.