Braces can contribute to gum disease if proper oral hygiene practices are not maintained during orthodontic treatment. While braces are effective for straightening teeth and correcting bite issues, they can also create challenges when it comes to keeping the teeth and gums clean. Here’s how braces can potentially increase the risk of gum disease and what you can do to prevent it:
- Plaque and Tartar Build-Up: Braces create additional surfaces and spaces where food particles, plaque, and bacteria can accumulate, especially around the brackets, wires, and orthodontic appliances. If these areas are not properly cleaned, plaque can harden into tartar (calculus), leading to gum inflammation and eventually gum disease.
- Difficulty in Cleaning: Braces can make it more challenging to clean the teeth and gums thoroughly, particularly with traditional metal braces that have brackets and wires. Food particles and plaque can become trapped around the braces, making it difficult to remove them with regular brushing and flossing alone.
- Increased Gum Sensitivity: During orthodontic treatment, the gums may become more sensitive and prone to irritation due to the pressure exerted by the braces. This can make the gums more susceptible to inflammation and infection, especially if proper oral hygiene practices are not maintained.
- Gingivitis: Gingivitis is the early stage of gum disease characterized by red, swollen, and bleeding gums. If plaque and tartar are allowed to accumulate around the braces, they can irritate the gums and lead to gingivitis. Symptoms of gingivitis may include bleeding gums when brushing or flossing, bad breath, and gum tenderness.
- Periodontitis: If gingivitis is left untreated, it can progress to a more severe form of gum disease called periodontitis. Periodontitis involves the destruction of the gum tissue and underlying bone, leading to pockets forming between the teeth and gums. Left untreated, periodontitis can result in tooth loss and other serious dental problems.
To prevent gum disease during orthodontic treatment with braces, it’s essential to practice good oral hygiene habits and take extra care when cleaning the teeth and gums. Here are some tips to help maintain healthy gums while wearing braces:
- Brushing: Brush your teeth after every meal and snack, using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Pay special attention to brushing around the braces, including the brackets, wires, and gumline. Consider using an interdental brush or an electric toothbrush with a small brush head to reach tight spaces between the braces.
- Flossing: Floss between the teeth and under the wires at least once a day to remove plaque and food debris. Use a floss threader or orthodontic floss threader to thread the floss under the wires and between the teeth. Alternatively, use a water flosser (oral irrigator) to flush out debris from around the braces and gumline.
- Rinsing: Rinse your mouth with an antibacterial mouthwash or saltwater solution to help reduce bacteria and inflammation in the gums. Swish the mouthwash around in your mouth for 30 seconds before spitting it out. Avoid alcohol-based mouthwashes, as they can cause dryness and irritation of the oral tissues.
- Regular Dental Check-Ups: Attend regular dental check-ups and cleanings with your orthodontist or dentist to monitor the health of your gums and teeth during orthodontic treatment. Your orthodontist may recommend more frequent cleanings or adjustments to your braces if necessary.
- Healthy Diet: Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains to support overall oral health and reduce the risk of gum disease. Avoid sugary and sticky foods that can contribute to plaque formation and tooth decay.
- Orthodontic Wax: Apply orthodontic wax to the brackets and wires of the braces to create a smooth surface and reduce friction against the gums. This can help prevent irritation and soreness of the gums caused by the braces.
- Orthodontic Relief Gel: Apply orthodontic relief gel or numbing gel to the gums as needed to soothe irritation and discomfort caused by the braces. Follow the instructions provided on the product packaging and consult with your orthodontist if you experience persistent discomfort.
By practicing good oral hygiene habits and taking proactive steps to care for your gums, you can minimize the risk of gum disease during orthodontic treatment with braces and maintain a healthy smile for years to come. If you have any concerns about your gum health or experience symptoms of gum disease, such as bleeding gums or gum tenderness, consult with your orthodontist or dentist for personalized advice and treatment recommendations.
Contact Beauty Smile Orthodontics for a consultation. We provide orthodontic treatment for every member of the family. Reach out to us here to achieve your smile goals.