Jaw Pain After Braces Removed
Jaw pain can be a sign of an incorrect bite, and orthodontic treatment may help. If your jaw pain is chronic, talk to an orthodontist about your options for relief.
It’s normal to experience some sensitivity after braces are removed, and the discomfort usually goes away within a week or so.
Ice Packs
When you first get braces, you may experience pain in your jaw. This is normal and should go away within a few days after your orthodontist has tightened the wire and springs.
During your regular visits with the orthodontist, the braces are adjusted and new elastic rubber bands are placed around your teeth. This can cause painful inflammation of your gums and mouth tissues.
Ice packs can help reduce the swelling and numb the pain. Place one on the outside of your mouth for a few minutes at a time to ease the pain.
Reusable ice packs are great for keeping in your purse, car or backpack and use as needed. They can be filled with water or gel, depending on your needs.
Peppermint Tea
Peppermint tea is a popular herbal remedy that contains antioxidants, which fight oxidative stress. This can help prevent chronic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer.
Drinking a cup of hot or cold peppermint tea can also be beneficial for headaches. In addition, drinking peppermint tea may reduce the intensity and length of menstrual cramps.
You can brew peppermint tea by steeping a tea bag, dried leaves, or crushed fresh mint in water. Steep the tea for 5 to 7 minutes to get the full flavor.
You can also use a cotton swab to apply clove oil, nutmeg oil, or eucalyptus oil to the painful tooth and gum area. A few drops of this oil will provide momentary pain relief and numb the area.
Warm Salt Water Rinse
If you are experiencing jaw pain after braces removed, a warm salt water rinse may be able to help. This is because saltwater helps to reduce inflammation and irritation.
Rinsing with salt water can also aid in healing and speed up the process of recovery after oral surgery or dental trauma. It can also soothe sore throats and mouth ulcers, and it can fight off bacteria that can cause infection.
It is important to rinse with a salt water solution as often as you can. Doing so will keep your mouth clean and healthy, but it should never replace daily brushing or flossing.
Massage Your Gums
It’s important to remember that excellent oral hygiene is key to healthy gums. When you have braces, it’s even more crucial that you take the time to clean your teeth thoroughly and regularly.
Brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing at least once a day are important parts of your oral care routine. But did you know that a regular gum massage can also boost your oral health?
Massaging your gums can improve circulation in the tissues, kill bacteria and help with the healing process. Plus, it’s a great way to add another step to your oral care routine.
Heating Pads
Heating pads can provide soothing relief to the jaw, cheeks and gums when you are experiencing discomfort. They can be found in a variety of forms, including electric, infrared and chemical.
Some types of heat pads come with a range of settings to control their temperature. Some also offer auto-shutoff and overheating protection features.
Natasha Trentacosta, MD, sports medicine specialist and orthopedic surgeon at Cedars-Sinai Kerlan-Jobe Institute in Los Angeles, recommends starting on the lowest setting and adjusting it as needed.
It’s common to feel a little sore after getting your braces placed or after adjustments, especially during the first few days. A twice-a-day salt water rinse can help reduce soreness, while a warm washcloth or heating pad on the outside of your mouth may also be helpful.
