Summarize:

Simple over-the-counter pain medications may reduce swelling, inflammation, and pain associated with new braces. Try using pain killers and see if you notice an effect.  Ibuprofen can help reduce pain and swelling associated with new braces. Take the medication as recommended on the bottle. Avoid alcohol when taking pain medications.  If you're on any existing prescription medication, it is important to talk to a pharmacist to make sure over-the-counter meds will not interact poorly with whatever medication you're taking. Ask your orthodontist about special gels and medicines designed to reduce pain. There are many dental products that can ease the transition into new or tightened braces.  Several rinses and gels have medications in them that help ease pain. Follow all instructions when taking these medications. Ask your dentist if you have any questions about the medications. Bite wafers are products shaped to fit your teeth. You bite down on these products for a set period of time, which encourages an increase in blood circulation that results in less pain. Chewing gum can also help reduce pain. Barrier products are designed to provide some separation between your braces, teeth, and gums. This can help prevent irritation that causes pain and soreness.  Dental wax is one of the most common and easy to use barrier products. Your dentist will give you a container of wax and you simply break off a piece and rub it on the areas that are sore. Make sure you take dental wax off before brushing your teeth as dental wax can get stuck in your toothbrush.  There are also barrier products that are somewhat similar to whitening strips, known as comfort strips. You place a strip over your teeth and it forms a protective barrier between your braces, teeth, and gums. Ask your dentist about using comfort strips when you get your braces put in place.
Take over-the-counter pain medications. Use dental products designed to relieve pain. Try barrier products.