Having braces can sometimes lead to the uncomfortable experience of inflamed gums. This common issue arises due to orthodontic appliances, which make maintaining oral hygiene more challenging. Understanding the reasons behind this inflammation and knowing how to effectively manage it can significantly improve comfort throughout orthodontic treatment. This article provides practical guidance for addressing inflamed gums when wearing braces.
Why Gums Become Inflamed
Gums can become inflamed with braces primarily due to increased plaque accumulation around the brackets and wires. Braces create additional surfaces and small spaces where food particles and bacteria easily get trapped, making thorough cleaning more difficult. If these deposits are not regularly removed, it can lead to gingivitis, the initial stage of gum disease, characterized by red, swollen, and easily bleeding gums.
Direct irritation from the orthodontic appliance also contributes to gum inflammation. Wires and brackets can rub against soft tissues, causing localized swelling and discomfort, especially during initial adjustment or after routine tightenings. Furthermore, the constant pressure applied by braces as teeth shift can cause temporary gum swelling as the surrounding tissues adapt to these changes. Hormonal changes, such as those experienced during puberty or pregnancy, can exacerbate gum inflammation, increasing susceptibility to gingivitis even with diligent oral care.
Effective At-Home Solutions
Effective at-home care is important for managing inflamed gums while wearing braces. Rinsing several times daily with a warm saltwater solution can help reduce inflammation and promote healing due to its anti-inflammatory qualities. An alternative is an alcohol-free antiseptic mouthwash, which helps eliminate bacteria that contribute to swelling and can reach areas brushing might miss.
Proper brushing techniques are key to oral hygiene with braces. Use a soft-bristled or specialty orthodontic toothbrush, holding it at a 45-degree angle to the gum line. Brush gently around and under wires and brackets, ensuring all surfaces are cleaned without damaging the appliance. Take 2-3 minutes to brush each tooth individually, including the tops, bottoms, and sides of the brackets, to dislodge trapped food particles and plaque.
Flossing daily is equally important, despite the challenges presented by braces. Several tools can help:
Floss threaders are small, flexible tools that guide traditional floss under the archwire and between teeth.
Interdental brushes are small, cone-shaped brushes designed to clean between teeth and around braces.
Water flossers, or oral irrigators, use a pressurized stream of water to remove food particles and plaque from between teeth and around braces, and some are clinically shown to be more effective than string floss for plaque removal around braces.
Dietary adjustments also support gum health. Avoiding sticky, hard, or sugary foods is advisable, as these can easily get trapped in braces, worsen inflammation, or damage the appliance. Opt for softer foods that are easier to chew, such as mashed potatoes, yogurt, or cooked vegetables. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can reduce pain and swelling, and topical gels containing numbing agents like benzocaine can provide localized relief.
When to Seek Professional Help
While at-home care can alleviate gum inflammation, certain signs indicate professional intervention from a dentist or orthodontist is necessary. If gum swelling persists for more than a week, worsens, or is accompanied by persistent pain or frequent bleeding, it warrants a professional assessment. These symptoms could signal a more significant underlying issue, such as advanced gingivitis or another dental condition.
Other concerning indicators include pus, unusual discharge, a persistent bad taste, or inflammation severe enough to interfere with eating or speaking. If gum tissue appears to be growing over the teeth, known as gingival enlargement, professional treatment may be required. A dental professional can assess the condition, recommend a professional cleaning to remove stubborn plaque and tartar, adjust the braces if they are causing irritation, or prescribe medication to manage infection or severe inflammation. For severe gingival enlargement that does not respond to at-home treatment, removal of irritated gum tissue, often with a laser, may be considered.
Long-Term Prevention Strategies
Maintaining healthy gums throughout orthodontic treatment and beyond requires consistent long-term prevention strategies. Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings are important, often recommended every three to six months for individuals with braces, rather than the standard six months. These appointments allow dental hygienists to remove plaque and tartar buildup that can be difficult to reach with braces, reducing the risk of gum disease and cavities.
A consistent daily oral hygiene routine remains the foundation of prevention. This includes brushing at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and flossing daily using appropriate tools like floss threaders or a water flosser. Reinforcing these habits, even when gums feel healthy, helps prevent plaque accumulation and subsequent inflammation. Using an alcohol-free, fluoride mouthwash can further aid in plaque reduction and strengthen tooth enamel.
Care for the orthodontic appliance also plays a role in prevention. Promptly reporting any broken wires or brackets to the orthodontist is important, as these can cause direct irritation to the gums. Orthodontic wax can be applied to sharp areas to create a protective barrier and minimize friction. Maintaining a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals contributes to overall gum health and helps prevent inflammation from recurring.