While braces play an important part in helping to create a healthy mouth and teeth, Milestone Orthodontics in Bloomfield says you might experience a few side effects while wearing them. Dr. Milestone says this is common and can be easily treated.
Even with the best of care, braces can cause soreness to your mouth. As your teeth begin to move, Milestone Orthodontics says it is natural for your teeth to feel aches and your jaw to develop soreness.
If there are broken wires or loose bands on your braces, a sore tongue, mouth, or canker sore will occur. Canker sores are a common occurrence when braces rub inside the mouth. There are ointments available in Bloomfield to reduce the pain and irritation associated with mouth sores. If you experience a sore mouth or any of the following problems, call Milestone Orthodontics to schedule an appointment.
• Loose brackets: Apply a small amount of orthodontic wax to the bracket temporarily. You might also apply a little between the braces and the soft tissue of your mouth.
• Loose bands: These must be secured in place by our office in Bloomfield. Try to save the band for repair.
• 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 spacers: These will need to be re-positioned and sometimes replaced.
Some foods can also help or hurt you while you’re wearing braces. Milestone Orthodontics recommends that you 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 bubble gum should be avoided.
Braces, rubber bands, springs, and other mouth appliances associated with braces will normally attract food particles and plaque. Without the proper care, this could cause staining of your teeth.
Dr. Milestone recommends brushing after every meal or snack and carefully removing any food that might be lodged in the braces. A fluoride mouthwash might be helpful in addition to flossing. At your next appointment, Dr. Milestone can advise you how to floss with a brush specially designed for braces!
If you would like more information on the care of braces, please contact Milestone Orthodontics at his Bloomfield office or visit our website.
