If you are suffering from mouth sores because of your braces, you might find yourself reaching for an over-the-counter pain reliever or an oral gel that will help numb the pain. If you just aren't getting any results from taking medication or would like to avoid medicine if possible, you do still have options. These are a few natural options that can help provide you with some relief.

Use the Wax

Although it will not help with your existing sores, using wax on your braces can help prevent added irritation to sores that you already have and can help prevent more from forming. Simply place the dental wax on any sharp or otherwise troublesome parts of your braces. If you need help with adding the wax, you can always ask your orthodontist for suggestions in how to best use it.

Gargle Salt Water

Another good option is to gargle salt water, much as you might do if you were suffering from a sore throat. Simply add about one-half teaspoon to a cup full of warm -- not cold or overly hot -- water. Then, gargle for a few seconds and spit it out. This can be done every few hours without any ill effects, although you might prefer to only do it three to four times a day. The salt water mixture will help promote healing and help prevent bacteria in your mouth sores.

Use a Piece of Ice

A piece of ice can be used to numb the sores without the need for medication. Simply grab an ice cube from the freezer and hold it to the sore for a few seconds, until it goes numb. This can be done frequently throughout the day to help provide you with relief, and you don't have to worry about the unpleasant taste or the ingredients that can be found with many oral gels that are on the market. Drinking cold water throughout the day can provide you with relief as well, but may not numb the sores as well as a direct ice application does.

As you can see, you do not immediately have to reach for over-the-counter medication to get relief from your braces-related sores. Instead, follow these simple, natural tips to get some relief. Another option is to talk to your orthodontist about your pain -- he or she may be able to provide you with some tips for relief. To learn more, speak with a business like Family Dentistry Of Woodstock.