Canker sores can develop when you initially get braces because of the new irritation brought on by the friction of the braces rubbing against the inside of your lips and cheeks. Sometimes, only a minor irritant is required for mouth sores to form. The sores usually start to develop less frequently or disappear altogether as your mouth adjusts to your braces.

The first thing you should do if you start to get mouth sores is to consult your orthodontist. They ought to be able to determine whether a viable solution exists. Further irritation may impede the sores’ ability to heal and increase their susceptibility to infection, making this a very crucial step in the healing process.

Keep some ortho wax on hand all day in case your braces start to bother you. Pull a little piece of ortho wax (also known as dental wax) off with clean hands and roll it into a ball to use. In order to attach the wax, place it over the uncomfortable portion of your bracket or wire and press. In order to prevent irritation between your braces and your cheeks or lips, ortho wax will act as a smooth barrier.
Put some ortho wax over the metal piece if you feel your braces beginning to brush against your cheeks or lips to stop the sore from developing.

Like orthodontic wax, dental silicone coverings have a similar function. To prevent oral irritation, they are applied to your braces in the form of thin strips. Ortho wax is less durable than dental silicone, yet the silicone strip may be trickier to apply. Your braces must be totally dry in order for these silicone covers to function. These strips can be placed over dry brackets and then pinched in place. You can smooth the edges with a damp finger once they are in place. If your braces are cutting the side of your mouth or you feel a canker sore developing, silicone strips can be used to cover several brackets at once and offer relief.

For a number of oral conditions, salt water is a great all-natural treatment option. A salt water solution works well to reduce bacteria and dry out the canker sore.

1. Combine one teaspoon of salt and one half cup of warm water.
2. Swish this mixture in your mouth for about 30 seconds.
3. Spit out the mixture.
4. Repeat this procedure as often as necessary! Swishing, or gargling, with salt water every few hours can help to prevent your cheeks from becoming swollen, sore, or irritated from your braces.

Learn more about braces from the American Association of Orthodontists.