Alleviating discomfort stemming from orthodontic appliances involves various methods aimed at reducing inflammation and providing temporary relief. Examples include over-the-counter analgesics, topical anesthetics applied directly to irritated tissues, and dietary adjustments to avoid excessively hard or chewy foods that may exacerbate sensitivity.
Effective management of such discomfort is important for patient compliance with orthodontic treatment, ultimately contributing to successful outcomes. Historically, options were limited, relying mainly on palliative care. Modern approaches offer a wider array of choices, including specialized waxes to protect soft tissues from sharp edges and techniques for minimizing pressure from adjustments.