Braces are the tried-and-true method for correcting dental misalignments because they can effectively straighten even the most severely crooked smiles. This orthodontic treatment involves cementing metal brackets to the fronts of your teeth, which are threaded with an archwire with enough tension to pull them to their rightful places.
Although it’s a reliable method, the sharp corners and edges of the metallic components can rub raw spots in the tender tissues inside your mouth. Continue reading to learn more about why this happens and how to prevent it!
What are Canker Sores?
Also referred to as mouth ulcers, canker sores are circular spots that appear white, gray, or have a reddish outline. They’re one of the most prevalent oral issues, and can cause a great deal of discomfort, which can detract from your daily quality of life in several ways. For instance, you might struggle to eat or speak normally if doing so triggers pain.
These wounds are generally not contagious and often heal on their own, but there’s a chance they can become irritated and infected if they go unaddressed.
How Do Braces Cause Canker Sores?
Braces are infamous for poking the soft tissues of your mouth like your gums or the insides of your lips and cheeks. The sharp corners of the brackets or clipped ends of wires can abrade the tender flesh. This is more common in patients who are already prone to developing these lesions, who are likelier to develop additional wounds once their orthodontics are in place.
How Can I Prevent Canker Sores with Braces?
Fortunately, there are things you can do to prevent these wounds from developing and to ease the sting if they do. You can protect yourself from potential issues by:
- Applying orthodontic wax. Most providers are happy to supply you with a special wax to smooth the sharp edges of your braces. Placing a small, pea-sized amount over the bracket covers the metal so it doesn’t jab your tender tissues.
- Use silicone covers. Like using wax, these covers provide a smooth layer of material between your gums, lips, cheeks, and your orthodontics to prevent sores from developing or allow current ones to heal.
- Clean your mouth consistently. Brushing and flossing twice daily removes plaque and bacteria that could cause an infection, and keeping your braces clean keeps them from breaking, which reduces the likelihood of developing ulcers.
You’re much more likely to develop issues if your braces are loose, damaged, or dislodged. Visiting your orthodontist for regular follow-ups is an easy and effective way to keep your braces in good condition, so you’re less likely to develop ulcers!
Meet the Author
Dr. Payam Ishani is passionate about helping families in Oklahoma City improve their daily quality of life by enhancing their dental condition. He earned his dental degree from the University of California, San Francisco School of Dentistry then completed specialty orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics training at the University of Nebraska Medical Center. Today, he offers various services, including traditional braces, to straighten your smile to boost your confidence and oral health. If you’ve developed sores or are worried that your braces are injured, you can request an appointment on the website or by calling (405) 254-5094.