Orthodontics is known as one of the most effective methods of solving dental disorders and resetting the jaw at different ages. However, some people do not want to accept it due to the pain caused by this process. Now we have to search for the causes of pain caused by orthodontics and provide approaches for it. In this article, you will get to know **methods to reduce orthodontic pain**. Is orthodontics associated with pain? Installing orthodontics on the teeth can be accompanied by pain and discomfort, and this situation may continue for several days. Orthodontic pain is mostly due to the lack of habit of the person, his mouth and teeth with new braces. This pain usually starts 4 hours after placing the orthodontic archwires and reaches its peak after 24 hours. Pain management during treatment should be considered as one of the basic components. Although the amount of this pain largely depends on the choice of **orthodontist in Mashhad** or any other city, however, this unpleasant feeling usually occurs in the following situations: 1. During chewing (especially hard foods) 2. When the patient is talking and the orthodontic brackets and wires come into contact with the lips and tongue. 3. When the tongue hits the braces. Various factors can affect the duration of orthodontic treatment, including severe pain in the gums and teeth that may occur due to displacement. In general, after performing orthodontics, the patient should visit his specialist regularly and at regular intervals. In the following, you will get to know **methods to reduce orthodontic pain at home**. What are the solutions to reduce orthodontic pain at home? You can relieve the pain caused by orthodontics at home by implementing several simple methods. These methods are effective in reducing inflammation and pain. ### **Using housings; An effective method before visiting a doctor** It can be helpful to take pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen about an hour or two before you go to the dentist's office to have your braces installed or readjusted. ### **Using a cold compress; A way to reduce pain and inflammation** Using a cold compress will be effective in controlling and reducing inflammation. If you don't have access to an ice pack, drinking very cold drinks or eating ice cream can reduce your pain. ### **Eating soft foods and avoiding hard foods** After installing orthodontics on the teeth, it is necessary to avoid eating hard foods such as candy or chewing gum, because they can increase the pain. Instead of consuming these foods, you should consume soft foods, such as soups or purees. ### **Using salt water to soothe wounds; Pain reduction along with mouth disinfection** Rinsing the mouth with lukewarm water containing salt can help to clean and disinfect the sores created in the mouth and reduce the pain associated with them. ### **Use of OTC painkillers** Over-the-counter (OTC) medications such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen are used to reduce pain and sensitivity after the wires or brackets are adjusted. Acetaminophen is usually the first choice because it does not adversely affect tooth movement. Ibuprofen and other NSAIDs also reduce pain and inflammation, but long-term use may slow tooth movement. They should always be taken according to the recommended dosage, and excessive use can cause digestive or liver problems. Choosing the right medicine is very important depending on the physical condition of the patient and the recommendation of the orthodontist. ### **Using dental protection; A way to reduce pressure on brackets** Dental guards can help reduce pressure and prevent injury and pain caused by orthodontic brackets and wires. Before use, it is necessary to consult an orthodontist to choose the most suitable type of tooth protector. ### **Using wax in orthodontics; Oral soft tissue protection against brackets** Special orthodontic waxes are used by both dentists and patients to protect the inner tissue of the lips from possible damage caused by the sharp edges of the brackets. These waxes are non-toxic and do not pose a danger if swallowed, however, it is best to remove them from the mouth before brushing and eating. ### **Reduction of orthodontic pain with massage therapy** If during the period of orthodontics, the gums are damaged and the pain is caused by the same cause, the intensity of the pain can be significantly reduced by massaging the gums. This pain is usually caused by the pressure exerted by the orthodontic wires, which can lead to sore or swollen gums. ### **Don't forget to observe oral hygiene during orthodontics** During the time that you have orthodontic brackets on your teeth, you need to know that **care for orthodontic teeth** has its own principles. In general, oral and dental hygiene and proper care of orthodontic braces play an important role in reducing pain. The more you adhere to these health tips, the less discomfort you will feel during the treatment and the more comfortable you will be during the treatment. Is there another method or tool for orthodontics that is less painful? Orthodontic treatment is known as a main and standard solution for correcting dental and jaw abnormalities. However, some people do not want to use this method for various reasons, including the pain caused by it or the long duration of treatment. In such a situation, consultation with specialist doctors can help you to use other orthodontic tools and methods; In the following, we have described some of these methods for you: ### **Transparent orthodontics (invisible); Alignment of teeth in an invisible way** Invisible orthodontics has gained popularity due to its invisibility, portability and better hygiene. Because these plates are removable, they require more cooperation from the patient and are usually more expensive than traditional orthodontic treatments. ### **Using mini brackets will reduce pain in orthodontics** There is another type of orthodontic equipment known as an alternative to traditional metal retainers and brackets. These small brackets are made of steel and are 30% smaller than conventional ones, and because of their small dimensions, they cause less pain in patients. ### **Using ceramic braces** Another available treatment method is the use of ceramic braces, which are slightly larger than regular braces, but cause much less pain to the patient. #### Last word In this article, we have investigated the factors affecting the pain caused by orthodontics and its management and reduction strategies. If using these methods, your pain still does not decrease, we suggest you visit your dentist for a specialized examination. ###