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Even as far back as 500 BC, ancient Greek scholars had pondered ways to straighten teeth. It wasn’t until the early 1900’s however, that the first rudimentary orthodontic appliances were developed. Over time, these have evolved into the devices that dentists and orthodontists use today And even with their benefits, these devices can cause braces pain.
Causes of Braces Pain
Braces applied to the teeth are designed to realign teeth, widen the palate, and even correct a patients bite. Though these have positive effects both physically and cosmetically in the long run, there can be a number of effects that take place during transition that cause great pain and discomfort. The metal braces themselves can often cause irritation that leads to various mouth sores and ulcers by rubbing the tissues of the cheeks or gums. Dentists will usually give patients dental wax to place over the braces to help prevent this. There can be further issues resulting from the movement of the teeth themselves. As teeth realign, braces are tightened to continue their path to the correct positions. When this happens, there can be a gap left in the gums if enough calcium is not deposited for new bone to form where the tooth was previously. In some cases, teeth can remain loose in the gums for up to a year or more after braces are removed.
Combating Braces Pain
There are several ways of dealing with the pain from braces, though in most cases it will lessen with time on its own.
Dental Wax
The first is to use the wax that your dentist gives you to cover the metal on the braces. This will help prevent irritation on the inside of the mouth, or give sores caused by braces a better chance to heal.
Pain Relievers
Pain relievers like ibuprofen can help too, but in many cases they just take the “edge” off. There are oral anesthetics that you can purchase over the counter also that will numb areas of the mouth where it is applied.
Toothpaste
You can try toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth, but they often contain harmful ingredients that can create an overgrowth of bacteria by drying the mouth. This can lead to problems with the gums and other parts of the mouth healing.
Natural Relief
The best option for both relieving the braces pain, and also ensuring that your mouth and gums can heal properly is to look for a natural solution. For example: peppermint oil has antibacterial properties, and also can help with pain relief because of its cooling effect. As an added bonus, peppermint helps activate salivary glands. Saliva is very high in oxygen, and the natural enemy of bacteria.
Did it ever occur to you that the least expensive and painful option might be found in nature? Why not try a great product that provides natural relief?
- OraMD – The Mouth Doctor
