Avoid these 3 habits with braces on

When you first get braces, there's so much to learn, and sometimes unexpected issues pop up. One question I hear a lot, and even wondered myself, is 'Can braces cause nausea?' It might sound strange, but yes, for some people, braces can indeed lead to feelings of nausea or generally feeling unwell, especially during the initial adjustment period or after an adjustment. Don't worry, you're not alone if you've experienced this! From my experience and what I've learned, there are several reasons why braces might make you feel a bit queasy. First, the sheer foreignness of the braces in your mouth can be unsettling. Your mouth produces more saliva to deal with this new 'object,' and sometimes swallowing excess saliva can upset your stomach. Then there's the discomfort and soreness. When your teeth are moving, it can cause pain and pressure, and our bodies often react to pain by feeling nauseous. Eating can become a challenge too; if you're not eating enough because your teeth hurt, an empty stomach can definitely trigger nausea. Similarly, if you're taking pain medication, some types can have nausea as a side effect. Another big factor can be anxiety or stress. Getting braces is a big change, and the thought of discomfort, changes in appearance, or simply the long treatment process can create stress. Stress and anxiety are well-known triggers for digestive upset, including nausea. Maintaining good oral hygiene is also key. If food gets trapped around your braces and you're not cleaning properly, a bad taste or smell in your mouth can also contribute to feelings of sickness. So, what can you do if you experience this? I've found a few things that really helped me. Firstly, try to eat small, frequent meals, even if it's just a little bit of soft food. An empty stomach often makes nausea worse. Bland foods like crackers, toast, or plain rice are usually easier to tolerate. Staying hydrated by sipping water throughout the day is also crucial. Some people find relief by sucking on ice chips or sugar-free popsicles, which can numb the mouth slightly and provide a distraction. For me, ginger tea or ginger chews were a lifesaver when I felt a bit queasy, as ginger is a natural anti-nausea remedy. If anxiety is a major factor, trying relaxation techniques like deep breathing can be surprisingly effective. And, of course, if the nausea is severe, persistent, or accompanied by other worrying symptoms, always consult your orthodontist or doctor. They can rule out other causes and offer personalized advice. Remembering to keep your braces clean and avoiding habits that could cause further discomfort, like damaging your brackets, contributes to a smoother and more comfortable braces journey overall, reducing potential triggers for feeling unwell.