Traditional braces are a tried-and-true solution for patients who require orthodontic treatment. They’ve assisted countless generations and likely won’t be going anywhere soon, given their sheer usefulness at addressing issues like malocclusions, overbites, underbites, and more. However, despite all their pros, it’s not unheard of for patients with braces to encounter some slight problems and inconveniences during the process. Here’s a closer look at some of the most common issues and how they can be remedied on your own.
4 Common Problems with Braces
Braces are worthwhile; they prevent future dental issues while also addressing current ones. However, patients often must endure a few small complications while undergoing treatment. Four of the most common ones include:
Tooth Sensitivity
Braces straighten your teeth by applying gradual pressure to them over time, meaning that it’s possible to feel increased dental sensitivity following their placement, as well as after each time they’re adjusted. The teeth and gums may also feel more sensitive to hot and cold temperatures.
Chapped Lips
It’s not unheard of for braces to make your mouth feel dry, and this can even cause chapped lips. The braces might also be irritating or damaging your lips, especially while you’re first getting used to wearing them. You might also tend to keep your mouth more open during this period, further drying it out.
Broken Brackets/Wires
The brackets that are bonded to the teeth can sometimes become broken or dislodge, especially if a patient doesn’t comply with dietary guidelines. Likewise, the archwire connecting all of these brackets can also break, warranting a trip to the orthodontist.
Cavities
Believe it or not, teeth with braces are actually at an increased risk of dental decay. This is because it’s simply more difficult to thoroughly clean all the teeth if braces are present. The metal brackets and wires create spaces where food, bacteria, and plaque can easily become trapped.
Tips for Navigating the Braces Process
In any case, your primary goal with braces should be to complete treatment with as few speedbumps or setbacks as possible – and there’s quite a lot you can do at home to ensure this success. Here are some useful tips:
- Stick with a solid oral hygiene regimen; brush and floss daily, as braces can easily trap lingering food particles and debris that expedite problems like decay and gum disease. An interdental brush is often handy to use here; they’re designed specifically for patients with braces!
- Adhere to the dietary guidelines provided to you; certain foods can damage your braces, further delaying your treatment.
- Take advantage of orthodontic wax and use it to cover up any poking or protruding brackets and wires that come into contact with your soft oral tissues.
- Similarly, take over-the-counter pain relievers or use cold compresses to address mild discomfort and sensitivity.
- Continue to visit your dental provider as scheduled; this will ensure that your treatment remains on track and there aren’t any hidden issues threatening your smile. Also, let them know if anything’s amiss with your treatment so that they can quickly get things back on track.
Even with their few potential problems, braces remain a testament to what orthodontics is capable of achieving – and if you take care of your smile during your braces journey, keeping these issues at bay is easy and it won’t be long before you’re enjoying your straighter, healthier smile!
About the Practice
Our team here at Milton Orthodontics has proudly served families in the Milton, MA community for several years, offering a wide range of orthodontic solutions for patients of all ages including both traditional metal braces and Invisalign clear aligners. If you have any questions about the blog or you’d like to get in touch with our team to set up an appointment for yourself or a loved one, please visit us online or call us today for assistance. Telephone: (617) 698-8883.