After your braces are adhered to your teeth, you may experience some soreness associated with them, such as tenderness during biting pressure. Your orthodontist will recommend eating a soft diet for several days following the appointment. If you’re following this diet and still feel general soreness in your teeth or gums, it can be relieved by rinsing your mouth with a warm saltwater solution. Dissolve one teaspoon of salt in eight ounces of warm water and rinse your mouth vigorously. You can also take over the counter medications such as Tylenol. It is not recommended to take NSAIDs like ibuprofen, as these medications actually slow down the movement of your teeth, which of course interferes with your orthodontic treatment.

If you find that your lips, cheeks, or tongue become irritated as they adjust to your new braces; you can put dental wax on the braces to lessen irritation.