Do you currently have mouth sores with your braces? While this isn’t an urgent situation, you probably know how uncomfortable they can be when chewing, talking, or smiling. Fortunately, you don’t have to endure this condition for the rest of your orthodontic process. Keep reading to learn a few important tips on managing them as well as preventing them from happening in the future!
How Do I Prevent Mouth Sores with Braces?
Mouth sores are common for patients with traditional braces. Here are several methods that can help drastically reduce your chances of experiencing one:
- Maintain a clean mouth: To avoid getting sores in your mouth, it’s best to keep the area clean of debris and bacteria. Be sure to brush, floss, and rinse regularly, and visit your dentist every six months for checkups and cleanings.
- Use dental wax: The metal brackets and wires from your braces can sometimes irritate or injure your soft oral tissues like your gums, cheeks, and lips. To prevent this, try putting dental wax on any areas that poke too often to keep your mouth more comfortable.
- Drink lots of water: Since saliva has antibacterial components, you must stimulate as much of its production as possible. A dry mouth can also worsen these sores by making the abrasion more uncomfortable. By drinking water, you can promote saliva production and avoid dry mouth at the same time.
3 Ways to Manage Mouth Sores with Braces
Even if a mouth sore occurs during your treatment process, there are several measures you can take to lower your discomfort. Here are some of the best practices for managing this condition when it happens:
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers: If you have a large mouth sore, then the ideal option may be to take over-the-counter pain medications. They can help keep you comfortable while you go on to implementing the next steps.
- Rinse with salt and warm water: By mixing salt and lukewarm water, you’ll create a natural disinfectant to rinse your mouth with. Not only will this reduce swelling and minimize discomfort, but it’ll also eliminate bacteria.
- Avoid acidic and sugary meals: Foods that are high in sugar and acidity can exacerbate any existing mouth sores. Try refraining from ice cream, candy, sodas, and other treats like these altogether. Stick to vitamin-rich meals like oatmeal, yogurt, and eggs.
Having mouth sores while wearing braces can be uncomfortable and frustrating in your everyday life. With these few tips in mind, you can be sure to minimize your chances of developing any so that you can enjoy a healthier and stress-free treatment process!
About the Author
Dr. Alan Rauchberg earned his dental degree at the Temple University School of Dentistry. He’s also completed countless hours of continuing education to refine his techniques and expertise. He offers a wide variety of advanced and comprehensive treatments, including traditional braces and dental checkups/cleanings. If you’d like to know more about handling mouth sores with braces, visit his website or call him at 973-718-9887.