Orthodontic braces come with an adjustment period as teeth begin to move into their optimal positions. Occasionally, some patients may experience minor discomfort from the braces themselves. Left unaddressed, some of these issues can lead to larger problems.
The majority of problems with braces can be avoided or remedied by practicing proper oral care at home. However, if the issue persists, it might be time to make an appointment with our team.
Soreness or Irritation from Braces
When getting used to braces, a period of minor discomfort is to be expected. The new sensation of the metal on your lips, cheeks, and tongue can sometimes cause irritation or soreness. If you have any existing injuries or sores in your mouth, continuous contact with your braces might exacerbate the problem, leading to increased discomfort and longer healing times.
If your braces continue to irritate your mouth, here are a few steps you can take to quickly address it:
- Be sure to exercise proper oral care to limit the chance of food or debris contributing to the irritation
- Drink plenty of water, as a dry mouth will only worsen the irritated areas
- Use orthodontic wax to cover any parts of your braces that are poking or causing irritation
- If the problem continues, schedule an examination with our 49002 orthodontist today to see how we can help
Damaged Orthodontic Wires or Brackets
Although braces are built to withstand daily wear and tear, there is always a slight chance of damage occurring. The most common issues you might experience are a broken or loose wire or a bracket that has come off of your tooth. While neither of these is a particularly serious issue, you’ll want to schedule an appointment with us as soon as possible to have the problem corrected. Your braces can’t work properly if damaged.
Mouth Injuries with Braces
There is a risk of increased damage if you sustain a mouth injury while wearing braces. It is recommended that you wear a mouth guard when participating in any sort of physical activity to reduce the risk of damage to your lips. Using non-medicinal wax on the parts of your braces that are particularly irritating can also help protect against injury.
Many people go through their entire orthodontic treatment without any major irritation or damage. However, being aware of the potential problems you might have can help you prepare for them. If you experience any pain or discomfort when wearing braces, don’t hesitate to contact our Portage, MI orthodontics office.