Braces are dental appliances made of brackets, bands, and wires, used to gradually align teeth and correct bite issues. While this orthodontic treatment is effective, it can sometimes be associated with throat discomfort or soreness. The hardware itself does not introduce a viral or bacterial infection. Instead, the appliance alters the mouth’s physiological environment, leading to conditions that mimic or cause non-infectious pharyngeal irritation.
Indirect Causes Related to Braces
The most common link between new braces and throat irritation stems from changes in breathing patterns and moisture levels. The presence of the orthodontic hardware, particularly during the initial adjustment period, can make it difficult for some individuals to maintain a fully closed mouth. This difficulty often leads to an increase in mouth breathing, especially during sleep.
Breathing through the mouth rapidly evaporates moisture from the oral cavity and the pharynx, leading to oral dryness, known as xerostomia. Saliva is a natural lubricant and cleanser, and its diminished presence leaves the throat lining exposed to the drying effects of inhaled air. This chronic dryness irritates the delicate tissues in the back of the throat, resulting in a scratchy, sore sensation.
When the mouth adapts to the new appliance, the function of saliva changes, potentially affecting its protective qualities. The reduced moisture and altered airflow contribute significantly to the perceived throat discomfort. This irritation is a direct consequence of physical change rather than an infection.
Oral Hygiene and Bacterial Load
The structure of brackets and wires introduces numerous new surfaces and crevices where food particles and oral bacteria can accumulate. These areas can be challenging to clean effectively, leading to a rapid buildup of dental plaque. Poor oral hygiene in the presence of braces can result in an increased bacterial load within the mouth.
This elevated microbial presence can trigger gingivitis, an inflammatory response in the gums. The generalized increase in inflammation and bacteria can contribute to irritation in the wider oral and pharyngeal area. The body’s immune reaction to this higher bacterial concentration may cause a low-grade, generalized pharyngeal irritation that feels like a mild sore throat.
Saliva contains enzymes and antibodies that naturally help control the oral microbiome. When xerostomia occurs, the mouth loses this natural defense mechanism, allowing bacterial populations to thrive and potentially spread. Rigorous cleaning is necessary to mitigate the risk of this microbial contribution to throat discomfort.
Addressing the Discomfort
To manage soreness related to dryness, maintaining consistent hydration throughout the day is highly beneficial. Drinking water frequently helps stimulate saliva flow and keeps throat tissues lubricated, counteracting the effects of mouth breathing. Using a cool-mist humidifier in the bedroom at night can also help keep the air moist, reducing the evaporation of oral moisture during sleep.
Addressing the hygiene component requires specialized tools and practices beyond a standard toothbrush. Utilizing a water flosser or interdental brushes helps remove trapped food debris and plaque from around the brackets and wires. Rinsing the mouth several times a day with a warm saline solution can soothe irritated tissues and help reduce the oral bacterial population.
While most brace-related throat discomfort is non-infectious, monitor symptoms closely. If the sore throat is accompanied by fever, body aches, or swollen lymph nodes, consult a healthcare professional. Severe pain that does not improve after a few days also suggests a separate viral or bacterial illness requiring medical attention, not a direct side effect of the orthodontic treatment.