The help with pain relief will also come in handy after changes exacerbate pressure on one’s teeth. However, not all these pain relievers are the same; hence, this article will help you find the best pain reliever for braces. Braces are one of the popular choices to correct misaligned teeth and achieve the smile you desire. But, to get that, people have to go through with a little bit of discomfort and soreness. Braces are not that painful, but after getting your braces on, you may want to have some mild pain reliever in the following days.
Most Effective Pain Reliever for Braces
NSAIDs are popular anti-inflammatories, but they decrease the level of procollagen—a compound that can strengthen tissue. If mechanical stress has been used on the teeth, then the bone and periodontal ligament surrounding the teeth start restructuring themselves. NSAIDs interject this process.
Taking over-the-counter pain relievers such as aspirin, acetaminophen (Tylenol), and ibuprofen can help relieve the discomfort of braces.
They are the most effective and suitable over-the-counter medications for pain relief, as they are safe to utilize. However, some people have different dental complications and specific needs. That’s why most dentists suggest not using NSAIDs as a pain reliever, as it can be dangerous for one’s overall health because it slows down the healing process and your teeth moving. If you feel worse tooth pain, better consult a dentist for the right solution.
Acetaminophen is the Best Pain Reliever for Braces
Many dental experts suggest the use of acetaminophen over other NSAIDs like naproxen or ibuprofen. Acetaminophen doesn’t have the same blood-thinning effects as NSAIDs; that’s why it is not considered an NSAID. Acetaminophen is an effective painkiller and fever reducer that has minimal influence over clotting or the gastrointestinal system. It helps to reduce inflammation; however, it’s important to not exceed the recommended dosage; otherwise, the liver might be affected.
What is the Right Time to take Acetaminophen?
It should be only taken when required. It is most likely required if the braces were just fixed and the second time when your dentist decides to adjust them. Remember that pain from braces is often temporary. The majority of people just require the medication for a single day or two. You can talk to your orthodontist to know how frequently you should take acetaminophen to get the best outcome from its use.
Other Natural Ways for Pain Relief
Some people aren’t very drug-friendly and prefer natural methods for pain relief. There are also some effective natural remedies to manage discomfort and pain with braces at home.
Oral Analgesics: Some effective over-the-counter oral analgesics, like Anbesol and Orajel, help you to soothe sore teeth and gums, providing better relief and reducing discomfort.
Salt Water Rinse: Gently rinsing your mouth with warm salt water can be very helpful. It is a natural pain and swelling-reducing agent that kills harmful bacteria and helps you to minimize tooth pain.
Cold Compress: Applying a cold compress to the outer side of the cheek on the affected side also helps relieve pain, inflammation, and swelling. It will numb the area and give temporary relief, and you will feel better.
Use Orthodontic Wax: Sharp wires and brackets can be major causes of tooth irritation. Orthodontic wax can cover these pointed wires and brackets to protect the patient’s oral soft tissues from discomfort and irritation.
Herbal Teas: Herbal teas such as chamomile or peppermint tea are highly effective natural ingredients that have mild numbing properties to alleviate tooth pain. Consuming these herbal teas at a lukewarm temperature can also be very helpful for temporary relief.
Clove Oil: It is an antibacterial and anti-inflammatory ingredient, a natural anesthetic. It also helps to numb the affected area for some time and gives temporary relief. Simply mix a few drops of clove oil in olive or coconut oil and apply it to the affected side for a few minutes for better relief.
Food Intakes: You should not do anything that results in more pain. Taking cold drinks like smoothies and milkshakes can be helpful in soothing sore oral tissues. Use liquids with plenty of cold water in them for faster pain management.
These techniques are safe to utilize at home but can’t address severe toothache. If you feel unbearable tooth pain, you better consult a dentist.
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If you have any concerns about braces, Invisalign®, or any of the other orthodontic treatments, Celebrate Dental is always available to hear all your dental concerns and provide you with the best suitable treatment for your healthy smile.
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