An estimated four million people in the United States today wear braces to help correct dental alignment issues. While braces can be an effective tool when it comes to keeping teeth in line, you must remain vigilant while wearing these devices to prevent additional problems from appearing.
Here are 3 potential problems to be on the lookout for when you have braces.
1. Mouth Sores
When you wear braces there is the potential these dental appliances could trigger the formation of canker sores. A canker sore is often brought on by stress, and the introduction of braces can irritate the mucous membranes in your mouth. The resulting lesion can be quite painful, but fortunately canker sores are easily treated.
Without any treatment, these sores will disappear on their own in a week or two, but by rinsing your mouth 4-6 times per day with a mixture of equal parts milk of magnesia and an allergy liquid, you can speed the healing process.
2. Tooth Decay
Although some tooth decay is natural, the presence of braces can accelerate decay in areas where the appliance is anchored to the surface of your teeth. To prevent cavities from forming, you need to give your teeth some special attention while wearing braces.
Begin by investing in a special interdental toothbrush designed to help you clean food particles from underneath your braces. Rinsing with an antiseptic mouthwash after meals can also help get rid of the errant food particles behind braces that contribute to premature tooth decay.
3. Gingivitis
The gum disease known as gingivitis is no joke, especially for those who wear braces. Since it can be difficult to clean teeth thoroughly at the gum line when you have to maneuver around wires, people with braces are more susceptible to gingivitis.
If you notice that your gums become red and inflamed, you need to get more aggressive with your dental care. Brush and floss after every meal to help reverse the onset of gingivitis, and pay close attention to cleaning your teeth at the gum line, despite the interference your braces might cause.
Braces can be helpful when trying to correct crooked teeth, but it is important that you don't get complacent when it comes to dental care while you are wearing braces. Your orthodontist will help you with potential problems you might encounter while wearing braces and address these issues before they turn into serious complications.
Share2 February 2015
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