While Invisalign might be the better option, it is expensive and isn’t always necessary for most people. Traditional braces are a part of most ongoing dental treatments since they are a proven method for straightening teeth; however, you may get sores from wearing braces.
Since the mouth is a delicate area, inserting anything into it can be hazardous and cause issues such as ulcers, rubbing, and bleeding, leading to more severe conditions if not treated.
Some of the common concerns when it comes to braces include:
- Issues with braces
- How to treat
- How to prevent
Issues with braces range from relatively benign to severe conditions that require treatment by your dentist.
Common Issues Associated with Braces
When you first have braces installed, the stress that they place on your mouth can cause irritation of the gums, cheeks, and inner lips. Unfortunately, this can result in canker sores, also known as mouth ulcers. Mouth ulcers are commonly associated with braces and can even cause painful bacterial infections of the mouth if not appropriately treated.
There are other issues associated with braces; however, they are related to oral hygiene rather than the braces themselves. Not brushing, for example, will exacerbate any bacteria in the mouth or in and around the braces. This can lead to common dental issues such as tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath.
Treatments Available
Although cankers are very small, they can be very painful, but fortunately, treatment of cankers is fairly simple. In fact, in most cases, it will only require an over-the-counter medicine in the form of a rinse or gel that can be applied. For severe cases, mild painkillers such as ibuprofen can help with irritation or inflammation; however, this isn’t usually necessary.
In the worst case, if the issue becomes a bacterial infection, then treatment from a dentist or will be required. The braces might need to be removed; however, antibiotics are usually prescribed. This will help remove the infection altogether but won’t guarantee that it won’t return. Thus, good oral hygiene is vital when wearing braces.
How to Prevent Some Ailments
While cankers might be a stark reality of wearing braces, there are some preventative measures that you can take to limit or control the formation of mouth ulcers. The simplest method is to brush your teeth and floss twice a day, as recommended by dentists in the U.S.A. Regular brushing for 2 minutes each time is the best defense against oral issues. Additionally, other methods to prevent sores while wearing braces include silicon covers and orthodontic wax. Specifically, these specialized treatments work by limiting contact between the braces and the mouth’s soft tissue. Ensure that your silicon covers are completely dry before using them, and orthodontic wax should be warmed before applying it to the braces as this will help to shape and spread it.
Final Thoughts
If you are needing braces or need help with sores from braces, you have come to the right place! Hermosa Dental can help with all of your dental needs. With locations all over Houston, we ensure you have an excellent experience whenever you visit us for an appointment!