Braces can do amazing things for your smile, but getting used to all those brackets and wires isn’t always comfortable. If you’ve noticed sore spots on the inside of your cheeks, lips, or tongue, you’re certainly not alone! The good news is that braces-related irritation is usually temporary, and a few simple strategies can help you find relief.
Here’s how to manage oral sores while keeping your orthodontic treatment on track.
Why Do Braces Cause Mouth Sores?
Traditional braces use brackets and wires to gradually move your teeth into better alignment. Unfortunately, these appliances can sometimes rub against the soft tissues inside your mouth, causing irritation, small cuts, or painful ulcers.
Sores are especially common when you first get braces or after an adjustment, when your mouth needs time to adapt to changes in your appliance. As your cheeks and lips become accustomed to the hardware, irritation often becomes less frequent.
It’s also worth noting that braces don’t cause every type of mouth sore. Canker sores can develop for other reasons, too, although friction from orthodontic appliances may trigger or aggravate them.
How to Soothe Existing Oral Sores
If you’re already dealing with a painful sore, these simple remedies may help you feel more comfortable.
- Use orthodontic wax. Roll a small piece of orthodontic wax into a ball, then gently press it over the bracket or wire causing irritation. This creates a protective barrier between your braces and sensitive oral tissues. Follow the product instructions, and make sure the area is clean before applying the wax.
- Rinse with salt water. Mix about half a teaspoon of salt into a cup of warm water, swish gently, and spit it out. This can help soothe irritated tissues and keep your mouth clean.
- Choose softer foods. Yogurt, scrambled eggs, oatmeal, and mashed potatoes are easier to eat when your mouth is tender. Avoid crunchy, spicy, acidic, or very salty foods that might aggravate sores.
- Keep your mouth hydrated. Drinking plenty of water helps prevent dry mouth, which can make oral irritation more uncomfortable.
- Consider an oral pain-relief product. Some over-the-counter products can temporarily relieve discomfort. Ask your orthodontist or pharmacist which option is appropriate for you.
Most minor mouth sores heal within one to two weeks. If a sore persists, worsens, or keeps returning, seek professional advice rather than assuming your braces are the only cause.
How to Prevent Mouth Sores With Braces
A little preparation can make your orthodontic experience much more comfortable. Keep orthodontic wax handy, particularly during the first few weeks of treatment and after adjustments. Applying it as soon as you notice rubbing may help prevent irritation from becoming a painful sore.
Good oral hygiene matters, too. Brush gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush and clean carefully around brackets and wires to remove food particles. Floss daily using a floss threader or another orthodontic-friendly tool.
Avoid chewing on pens, fingernails, ice, and other hard objects that could damage your braces or injure your mouth. If a wire begins poking you or a bracket becomes loose, contact your orthodontist for guidance instead of trying to repair the appliance yourself.
When Should You Contact Your Orthodontist?
Occasional irritation is common, but persistent discomfort deserves attention. Contact your orthodontist if a wire continues poking your cheek, a bracket breaks, or sores interfere with eating and drinking. Seek medical or dental advice for ulcers that last longer than two to three weeks, become unusually severe, or appear alongside other concerning symptoms.
With a little patience and the right care, you can make your orthodontic journey more comfortable while working toward a healthier, straighter smile.
About the Practice
Willow Bend Orthodontics of Plano in Plano, Texas, provides orthodontic care for children, teens, and adults, offering traditional metal braces, clear braces, Invisalign, and other treatment options. The practice is led by Dr. Tamara L. Jones and Dr. Stephanie Amerson, who help patients achieve straighter, healthier smiles through personalized orthodontic treatment. The team emphasizes patient comfort, accessible treatment options, and helping every patient feel confident throughout their orthodontic journey.
Call us at (972) 732-1400 or schedule your appointment online