Dealing with Braces: 10 Common Problems and Simple Solutions

Getting braces is a major step towards achieving a healthier, more confident smile, but this journey can bring unexpected headaches. Whether you’re suffering from initial discomfort or everyday adjustments, problems can arise out of the blue. Knowing what these issues are can help reduce any fears you might have and let you focus on the treatment.

While braces are highly effective, the journey can sometimes feel overwhelming. Fortunately, most of these issues are temporary and can be easily dealt with in a short time and with little effort. In this blog, you will learn about ten common braces problems that might come your way and how to deal with them.

Common Braces Problems and How to Handle Them

Some typical issues patients encounter, and their respective solutions, are given below. This way, you’ll be all set to face whatever comes your way during treatment.

1. Discomfort and Pain

It’s normal to feel some discomfort after you’ve just gotten your braces in Franklin or after an adjustment. The pressure causes teeth to move with the braces attached, leading to soreness. While the discomfort is only temporary, eating and talking can be a bit difficult for a few days.

Solution: Take over-the-counter pain relievers to alleviate any discomfort. A warm saltwater rinse (half a teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water) will help soothe any sore spots. Line brackets or wires that are irritating the inside of your mouth with orthodontic wax to ease the discomfort.

2. Irritation from Wires and Brackets

As your teeth shift in their cages, the brackets and wires may rub against the insides of your lips or cheeks, causing discomfort. Occasionally, wires might poke at or rub on the inside of your mouth.

Solution: Use orthodontic wax to cover any sharp bracket edges or ends. This provides a barrier between your braces and the inside of your mouth. If the discomfort persists or a wire breaks, call your orthodontist for a quick fix. Avoid trying to fix the wire yourself with anything sharp!

3. Loose Brackets or Bands

It’s not uncommon for a bracket or band to come loose while undergoing orthodontic treatment. This can happen if you bite on something too hard or sticky; sometimes it’s just wear and tear that causes the problem.

Solution: If a bracket or band becomes loose, contact your dentist or orthodontist. In some cases, they can simply reattach it right then and there during a quick visit. In the meantime, avoid eating foods that could further exacerbate the situation, like sticky sweets or peanut brittle.

4. Difficulty Cleaning Teeth

Braces make it harder to clean your teeth properly, and if you’re not careful, plaque will build up around the brackets and wires, leading to cavities or gum disease. It is important to maintain a strict oral hygiene routine during treatment to keep your teeth and gums healthy.

Solution: Brush your teeth after every meal with a soft-bristle toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Invest in a special orthodontic brush, or an electric toothbrush with a smaller head to get around the brackets more easily. Flossing is trickier with braces, but it helps prevent cavities between your teeth; try using floss threaders or interdental brushes to reach those hard-to-reach areas.

5. Food Getting Stuck in Braces

Food crumbs can easily become caught in your braces, particularly after indulging in sticky or hard-to-chew items post-meal. This is upsetting, and if left unattended, food debris in the form of plaque can lead to bad breath.

Solution: Always carry dental floss for quick, easy cleaning on the go. You might also wish to rinse your mouth with water after eating to help remove food particles. Finally, if you brush well once home again, there will be no plaque buildup!

Source: Teeth Talk Girl

6. Rubber Band Problems

If your rubber bands are part of your treatment, problems such as breakage or discomfort can arise. used to push your teeth into position, rubber bands are essential, and you must adhere to the schedule for wearing them.

Solution: Replace your rubber bands immediately when they break. Any discomfort or tightness could indicate an problem, and you should visit an orthodontist for guidance on how to adjust them. Following the dentist/orthodontist’s orders about when to wear rubber bands is key to ensuring your treatment plan progresses smoothly.

7. Broken Or Damaged Wires

Though it is rare, a wire may be damaged simply by something hard being eaten or by wear and tear over a long period of time. If one of your wires breaks, it could feel quite uncomfortable and, over time, actually move the braces out of their proper position.

Solution: If a wire breaks, place orthodontic wax over the bared end to keep it from poking your gumline. Set up an appointment with your dentist or orthodontist as soon as possible. If you have an appointment today, they may be able to fix or replace your wire quickly in the office.

8. Mouth Sores and Ulcers

Braces may cause sores to form inside your mouth. This mainly occurs within the first few days after your braces are put on, or in case any adjustments are made.

Solution: Rinse your mouth with warm salt water, or use any over-the-counter mouthwash you have for mouth sores. Applying a special gel or ointment designed to ease mouth ulcers can also help alleviate pain. If these ulcers persist do talk with an orthodontist.

9. Increased salivation

Some people find that they suddenly produce much more saliva after having their braces put on. This makes both talking and eating more difficult than before, particularly during the early days right after first wearing braces.

Solution: This is a transient difficulty that you will gradually become adapted to. Artificial electrical gum is available in some varieties to help with excessive saliva; sugarless chewing gum has remained a common solution. Drink a lot of water.

10. Trouble with Certain Foods

Some foods can be tough to eat while you are wearing braces. Hard, crunchy, or sticky foods can damage your braces and easily get caught in the wires. You may need to slightly modify your diet during your treatment.

Solution: Sticky candies, chocolates, and nuts must be avoided. Instead, go for soft foods such as pasta, mashed potatoes, and yoghurt, and crush your drinks. Cutting up your food before eating can also make it easier to eat without stressing your braces too much.

Taking Care of Your Braces

Although braces may cause temporary inconvenience, for most people, the benefits will last a lifetime. With a bit of care and attention, most problems can be quickly and simply banished. At Happy Harpeth Pediatric Dentistry + Orthodontics, we are here to help you every step of the way with your braces.

If you’re ready for the next step in your smile makeover, call us today to book a consultation. Whether it is discomfort, sores, or loose brackets, do not hesitate to get in touch. Our team is dedicated to ensuring that your treatment is as smooth and successful as possible. A wonderful new smile is just around the corner!

Questions People Ask About Braces