Hi from Virginia Beach

[dat1boyjay]

Hello all!!! Im 30 years old from Virginia Beach. I just got my braces on yesterday morning and I can't describe how sore I am!!! Its like a mouthwide toothache. Somebody please tell me its not going to be like this for 24 months!!!

[Sunny]

Hi dat1boyjay and welcome to this forum.

It will get easier ... loads easier, and one day soon you'll forget you have braces. There are many ways you can help this happen and they include -
- Use wax generously! Wear wax while eating, it won't harm you if you eat some. Wear wax for about 24 hours after you feel the rubbing has stopped.
- Drink plenty of water! Keep your body well hydrated and this helps keep your mouth hydrated and better able to deal with the brackets.
- Keep your lips moist! Using lip balm is the best way to do this, and this helps your lips move more easily over the brackets.
- Rinse your mouth with warm salt water! Mix a little salt (about a pinch) in a little warm tap water, and rinse two or three times. Do this as often as you can while your mouth is sore. Salt water is soothing and healing.
- Eat/drink healthy! This is not a good time to stop eating because your mouth is sore. If you have to, choose soft options like milk drinks, yoghurt, soft foods etc.
- Make sure your oral hygiene is A1! This will help your teeth and gums cope with the changes. Use a soft small toothbrush, about the size a young child uses, is good when your teeth are sore.
- Massage your gums! Gently rub your gums with your finger. This encourages blood flow and tooth movement and often decreases discomfort.
- Take pain meds if you need them! Better to cope well with your decision, than to be in pain and doubt your sanity.

Good luck with your mouth improving quickly!

[mariahfromchicago]

dat1boyjay:
It's not going to be like that for 24 months. Don't worry. Good luck and 24 months will go by fast.

[dat1boyjay]

Thanx for the tips Sunny. I've been using wax like crazy!!!