Are Your Gums Supposed to Swell with Braces?
While braces can help get your teeth straightened out, they do come with some side effects during the process. Swollen gums with braces is a relatively normal reaction. The swelling may be more obvious than you expected as well, but there are solutions to help you get back to feeling better.
It’s important to remember that some pain and swollen gums with braces is normal, especially when they are tightened. However, it is important to monitor your swelling. If you have had swollen gums with braces for a long time without any pain, the cause may be from something other than your braces. Below you will find a few possible reasons why you may have swollen gums if it has lasted for a while since you have been wearing braces. For more info on orthodontics in Diamond Bar, look no further than Diamond Bar Dental Studio!
Gingivitis
Gingivitis occurs when there is a buildup of plaque on your teeth. Braces make it much harder to remove the excess debris after eating. The wires and brackets can hold onto leftover food and make it difficult to get into all of the nooks and crannies in your teeth and gums. Because of this, the food gets trapped into your mouth and it can cause a buildup of plaque over time.
This buildup, unfortunately, leads to inflammation in your gums, making them look and feel swollen. Oral care, while you have braces, is more important than without them because of the risks involved. Oral care is always important but the risk for plaque buildup is greater when you have braces.
Gum Irritation
Due to the invasive nature of braces in your mouth, they can cause irritation in your gum just by their mere presence. Hyperplasia occurs when there is an increase in gum cells. This could be due to a number of factors, but one of the possible factors is your braces. Talk with your orthodontist in Diamond Bar and discuss your medical history.
Hormones
Hormonal changes can increase your chances of gingivitis (plaque buildup). For most people, this is likely not the case. However, pregnant women can suffer from what is referred to as pregnancy gingivitis. Pregnancy gingivitis includes inflammation and tenderness in your gums. If you plan on getting pregnant or already are pregnant, it’s likely not the time to get braces. However, if you get pregnant while you already have braces you’ll need to contact your orthodontist.
In addition to pregnant women, young girls may also have this issue. Puberty can also create a surge in hormones that can have the same effect on gums as pregnancy would.
No matter what the reason may be for your swollen gums with braces, you should contact your orthodontist as soon as possible if you have been experiencing them for more than a few weeks. This is especially true if you haven’t recently gotten your braces put on or tightened. You will need to address the underlying issue and take steps to keep your mouth clean and healthy.
Healthy Oral Care Routine
No matter what, braces or no braces, you should have a regular and effective oral care routine. This is especially true if you have braces as they can pose a higher risk for plaque buildup that can lead to gingivitis. Below you will find some tips and tricks to keep your mouth healthy and clean with braces!
- Brushing: Brush for two minutes at least twice a day. Be sure your brackets are free and clear of any leftover debris. It’s important to use a soft-bristled brush and replace it every three months.
- Flossing: Floss at least once a day and use floss specifically for those with braces. This is really important to help reduce plaque buildup.
- Rinse: After you brush, rinse with water or mouthwash to flush out any leftover debris.
- Gargle: Use saltwater and gargle for 15-20 seconds for relief from swollen gums.
Orthodontists in Diamond Bar
Diamond Bar Dental Studio is home to the area’s top dental professionals. Whatever your orthodontic needs are Diamond Bar Dental Studio is equipped to take care of your needs. At Diamond Bar Dental, the focus of Dr. Cho and Dr. Jeon is to ensure that your dental health is completely taken care of. If you need to make an appointment, contact Diamond Bar Dental and set up your first visit!
646 N. Diamond Bar Blvd.
Diamond Bar, CA 91765
Serving Diamond Bar since 1995
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646 N. Diamond Bar Blvd.
Diamond Bar, CA 91765
(909) 455-9979
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