If your teenager has just had their new metal braces adjusted for the first time, they may be experiencing some soreness and tooth sensitivity. If so, use one or more of the following tips to help relieve their symptoms

Rinse Your Teen's Mouth With Peppermint Oil And Salt Water

If your teenager's gums are sore, have them rinse their mouth with a homemade mouthwash made with peppermint oil and salt. The peppermint oil has pain-relieving properties that help relieve the discomfort. The salt in the mouthwash helps decrease inflammation, and it also kills any germs around the braces, teeth, and gums.

To make the mouthwash, mix together a quarter of a cup of water, a tablespoon of salt, and 3 drops of peppermint oil. Have your teen swish the solution in their mouth for a half minute to a minute, then rinse with cool water. This mouthwash can be used after eating or drinking, as well as after brushing their teeth.

Have Your Teenager Suck On A Cold Peppermint Tea Bag

If your teen is experiencing moderate pain or soreness, they can suck on cold peppermint tea bags. As with the oil discussed in the previous section, the tea bags can help numb the pain. Chilling the bag first also relieves inflamed gums.

Place two peppermint tea bags in hot water, and let them steep for 10 to 15 minutes. Then, remove them from the water, and place them in a small bowl. Put the bowl in the refrigerator for an hour to chill. 

Tell your teenager to place one bag inside each cheek and suck on them gently to release the liquid into their mouth. Have them try not to swallow it right away. Instead, tell them to push it between their teeth.

After about 5 minutes, have your teen remove one of the bags and reposition the other one to the front of their mouth behind their lips. Have them suck on the bag for a few minutes, then remove it. If desired, follow with the mouthwash described in the previous section. This treatment can be used three times a day.

Using the above tips can help you help your teen relieve any symptoms they may experience when their braces are adjusted. However, if they are still experiencing symptoms that are moderate to severe, you may want to speak with their orthodontist at a location like Cobbe Dental & Orthodontics for additional tips and treatment options, such as gentler braces alternatives.