Although braces problems are not that common, let’s talk about what problems could occur! During orthodontic treatment, there are some common problems that can occur. No need to be worried though! We have all the tips you need, to prevent these common problems from happening to you. The following will also provide you with the best solutions to any problems that may occur over your treatment period.
Protruding or broken wires– Apply relief wax to the spot where they wire is causing discomfort. You can try to carefully move the wire to a less painful spot. Depending on the severity, you may want to book an appointment with your orthodontist to resolve the issue before further damage occurs.
Loose brackets– Apply a small amount of relief wax to the bracket. If possible, you can add some wax in between the soft tissue in your mouth and the braces.
Loose spacers– Try to place your spacers back in using the floss technique demonstrated to you at your last visit. If you are running into trouble, please contact us!
Loose bands– Try your best to save the band for repair and book an appointment with your orthodontist to get the band secured back into place.
Any of these common problems with braces can lead to canker sores. Canker sores occur when part of your braces rub along the inside of your mouth. We urge any patient that is experiencing any of the problems listed to call Dr. Mir and make an appointment. York Orthodontics wants to ensure that you are not in any pain during your treatment period.
Braces can be very delicate and break easily. To avoid this from happening during your treatment time, we recommend to watch what foods you are consuming. The appliances in your mouth have endless amounts of spaces where food can hide. Try to avoid any hard or sticky food. As well as food that can be easily lodged in between your braces. Doing this, will prevent any unsuspected orthodontic visits due to broken brackets, wires, bands and spacers.
You can be more prone to common oral health problems when wearing braces as well. Practicing good oral health is essential when it comes to wearing braces. Habits that worked great for you before braces, may not be enough now. Take extra time and care when maintaining your oral health with braces. The following, are common occurrences that can be amplified for patients with braces.
Demineralization- Demineralization takes place when teeth come in contact with bacteria, which produces acid. This causes a loss of calcium and phosphate in the teeth which leads to decalcification, also known as “white scars”. These “white scars” appear as little white squares where your brackets used to be. Unfortunately, demineralization is usually permanent and can cause sensitivity as well as lead to cavities. Demineralization is easily preventable. Simply take extra care when it comes to your oral hygiene. Brushing after every meal, flossing every day and avoiding soda are ways you can prevent demineralization from happening to you.
Gingivitis- Gingivitis is the initial form of gum disease. This occurs when the tissue around the teeth become inflamed. Other side effects may include, bleeding, tenderness, redness and swelling. Gingivitis is reversible, considering you don’t ignore the problem. Gingivitis can increase your valued treatment time so, if you see any signs, make sure to address it promptly!
Anybody can become affected by gingivitis. Although, wearing braces may increase your chance of developing this common disease. Braces can become an obstacle when trying to brush around the gum line. So, we encourage our patients to extremely attentive when brushing.
Plaque- Plaque is a colourless, sticky film that is produced by the combination of saliva and food particles in one’s mouth. Acid can form when plaque is combined with sugars, which can be dangerous for your teeth and gums. Plaque can lead to tartar, tooth decay, gum disease and other dental problems when not taken care of properly. Everybody suffers from plaque, but wearing braces can make it especially difficult to fight it. Brushing at least twice a day and flossing every day are the best ways to prevent plaque from becoming an issue.
Tartar- Tartar occurs when plaque is left on the tooth’s surface for too long and hardens. This can end up trapping stains on the teeth, which leads to discolouration. Tartar forms and hardens along the gum line, under the gums and especially around braces. Once tartar is formed, only a dentist or hygienist can remove it. Dr. Mir encourages patients with braces to be especially vigilant. Braces have endless spots where tartar can build. So, regular brushing and flossing is essential when it comes to prevents tartar build up.
Bad Breath- Braces have so many places where food particles can be trapped. Bacteria then feeds on the food particles left in your mouth which create an odour. This is caused by poor oral hygiene. Habits that worked well prior to braces, may not be enough now that you have braces. It is important to brush after every meal, floss daily and even use mouthwash regularly.
