If you have misaligned teeth, then braces are a great way to get the straighter smile you dream of. They use a trusted wire-and-bracket system that tackles a wide range of orthodontic issues. However, you may develop an oral sore or two during your treatment. While they can be uncomfortable, there are ways to get relief. Here’s what you need to know and tips to prevent this minor complication.
Just What Are Canker Sores?
Canker sores, or mouth ulcers, are a problem that people with and without braces can get. They are typically small oval-shaped spots that are white or gray with a reddish outline. If you have one, then you likely know how painful they can be, especially if anything touches them. The good news is that they heal on their own within two weeks, but if they persist for longer, then get them checked by a professional.
Why Are Cancer Cores Fairly Common with Braces?
Braces-havers are familiar with these infamous sores because of the hardware that’s on their teeth. While the brackets and wires straighten your grin, they can also irritate the soft tissues in your mouth. As they rub against your inner cheek, they can turn into a troubling ulcer.
How Can I Prevent Canker Sores During My Treatment?
With that said, although you may be at a higher risk of sores, there are ways you can get relief and prevent them. These are some tips you should try to keep your orthodontic treatment more comfortable:
- Use dental wax to cover any brackets or wire ends that are uncomfortable. It will act as a barrier to protect your mouth.
- Get silicone covers for your braces. They act like the point above, but they cover your whole smile rather than a small point.
- Brush and floss at least twice daily to remove plaque that increases your risk of ulcers and infection.
- Rinse with warm salt water to reduce inflammation, swelling, and kill bacteria that can be troublesome.
Add the simple tips above to your routine, and you can hopefully prevent or soothe sores. While they can be annoying, don’t let them stop you from having a comfortable journey to the straighter smile you’re working hard to get.
About the Practice
At Serenity Orthodontics, our team is proud to serve the local communities with exceptional orthodontic care. If traditional braces are causing irritation or mouth sores, our experienced orthodontists are here to help you stay comfortable throughout your treatment. We offer personalized guidance and solutions to make your time with your brackets and wires as smooth as possible. If you want more tips on getting rid of oral sores, schedule an appointment or call our Vickery Village office at (678) 879–3006.
