Avoiding Common Problems Associated With Braces

While braces play an important part in helping to create a healthy mouth and teeth, you might experience a few side effects while wearing them that are common and can be easily treated.

Even with the best of care, braces can cause discomfort to your mouth. As your teeth begin to move, it is natural for your teeth to feel minor aches and your jaw to develop soreness.

If there are broken wires or loose brackets or appliances on your braces, you may experience a sore tongue, cheek or gum. Canker sores are a common occurrence when braces rub inside the mouth. There are ointments available to reduce the pain and irritation associated with mouth sores. If you experience a sore mouth or any of the following problems, call our office to schedule an appointment.  Here are some common problems and how to work around them:

• Loose brackets: Apply a small amount of orthodontic wax to the bracket temporarily. You might also apply a little between the braces and the gums and/or cheeks.  If the bracket detaches from the wire, please bring the bracket back to our office for repair.
• Loose bands: These must be secured in place by our clinical team.
• Protruding or broken wires: The eraser end of a pencil can be used to move the wire carefully to a less painful spot. If you are unable to move it, apply orthodontic wax to the tip. If a mouth sore develops, rinse with warm salt water or antiseptic rinse.
• Loose separators: These will need to be repositioned and sometimes replaced. Consult your separator instruction sheet for specific instructions.

Foods to Avoid

Some foods can also help or hurt you while you’re wearing braces. Remember to cut your food into small pieces that can be easily chewed. You will want to avoid hard and chewy foods that can break your hardware. Foods such as corn on the cob, nuts, carrots, apples, ice, and sugared bubble gum should be avoided.

Braces, rubber bands, springs, and other mouth appliances associated with braces will attract food particles and harbour plaque. Without the proper care, this could cause cavities and permanent markings on your teeth.

We recommend brushing after every meal or snack and carefully removing any food that might be lodged in the braces. Flossing is also an essential part of your oral health regimen, with or without braces!  You may also benefit from a daily fluoride and anti-cavity mouth rinse.  We will provide you with all the tools necessary to keep your braces and appliances in top shape – don’t be afraid to ask us for help!