How to Soothe & Prevent Braces-Related Mouth Sores
Braces causing cuts or irritation? Learn simple, effective ways to find quick relief and long-term comfort from mouth sores.
If your new braces are cutting your lips or cheeks, you're not alone. This common issue, especially in the first few weeks, is easily managed. Discover how to use orthodontic wax, safe DIY filing, and other remedies to soothe and prevent discomfort.
🦷 What Causes Braces to Cut Your Lips or Cheeks?
Braces involve brackets, wires, and elastics—materials that your mouth isn’t used to (yet). As you adjust, the inside of your lips and cheeks may rub against the brackets, leading to:
- Raw or irritated spots
- Small ulcers or canker sores
- A stinging or burning sensation when eating or brushing
These **mouth sores from braces** are most common during the adjustment period but can also occur after tightening or if a wire shifts.
💬 While NewSmile offers clear aligners as a more comfortable alternative to metal braces, we know some patients still go the traditional route—and comfort matters either way.
🧊 Wax to the Rescue: Your First Line of Defense
Orthodontic wax is your best friend when it comes to preventing or soothing cuts caused by braces.
How to use it:
- Wash your hands and dry the area around the sore
- Roll a small ball of wax between your fingers
- Press it gently over the bracket or wire causing irritation
- Remove before eating or brushing, then reapply
✨ Tip: Reapply as needed throughout the day, especially if you're talking or eating a lot. NewSmile recommends keeping a small container of wax in your bag or braces kit—because comfort should always be within reach.
✂️ DIY Filing: Can You Do It at Home?
Yes—**DIY filing** is safe in certain cases, especially if you have a bracket or wire with a sharp edge poking out.
Use these tools carefully:
- A clean nail file or orthodontic wax tool
- Smooth gently in one direction
- Never file directly on teeth or gums
🚫 Don’t attempt major adjustments yourself. If a wire is out of place or a bracket is broken, it’s best to visit your orthodontist.
💆♀️ Other Relief Tips for Braces Mouth Sores
In addition to wax and filing, here are a few ways to manage the pain and help your mouth heal faster:
- Salt water rinses: Mix 1 tsp of salt in a glass of warm water and swish gently
- Cold compress or ice chips: Helps numb and reduce swelling
- Avoid acidic or spicy foods while healing
- Topical gels: Ask your dentist about numbing products for stubborn sores
🌿 Your mouth will toughen up over time, and these flare-ups will happen less often. Just hang in there and treat your smile with care.
Final Thought
If your braces are cutting your lips, you’re not alone—and you don’t have to suffer through it. With simple tools like wax, careful DIY filing, and soothing home remedies, you can ease discomfort and get back to focusing on what really matters: your smile transformation.
🦷 Whether you're wearing metal brackets or clear aligners from NewSmile, comfort is key—and we're always here to help you feel confident and supported every step of the way.
