Swollen Gums: What They Mean When You Have Braces

As many discover after they first have braces put on their teeth, they have to make quite a few changes to their habits and deal with a few side effects of orthodontics. For instance, swollen gums aren’t uncommon with braces, especially after first receiving them. Initial soreness is normal, but if your gums become swollen later after a prolonged period without pain, it could be a sign of something else. So, here are some things that can cause swelling while wearing braces and how you can take care of them.

Gingivitis Due to Unseen Plaque

The initial stage of gum disease, gingivitis results from a buildup of plaque on the teeth, and braces make it harder to reach these growing buildups with wiring and brackets in place. When food becomes trapped in the gums, the plaque that builds up in time leads to gum inflammation. While it's constantly important for your health to be diligent with your oral health care, it’s especially true when a person has braces. To lessen this swelling, review the proper brushing methods with your local orthodontist and get some more cleaning tools to help clean your teeth and mouth thoroughly even with braces.

Hormones May Swell Gums

For expecting mothers, there’s a chance that hormonal shifts could increase their chances of tenderness and inflammation in the gums, in what the ADA has called “pregnancy gingivitis.” While pregnant women would be wise to wait until after their child is born to have braces put on, those who are both pregnant and have braces already should schedule an orthodontist appointment. This is especially important if there is already swelling. As well, hormones could also be the cause of swollen gums for girls going through puberty.

Regardless of why, patients should schedule an orthodontist appointment and go over the better oral care and brushing techniques to relieve swelling.

Braces Can Cause Irritation

Swollen gums due to braces can also result from gingival enlargement, otherwise known as hyperplasia or hypertrophy. This condition can occur if there is an increase or overgrowth of gum cells. This is often caused by a medicinal or hereditary condition, but it can also happen when the gums react to the braces and become irritated. Talk to your orthodontist or dentist about your health history to help determine your options for treatment.

How You Can Handle It

The easiest way to relieve swelling is identifying it early and scheduling an orthodontist appointment to review your home oral health care approach. Some of the following can help in that regard:

·Be patient with your daily flossing, using special floss to help clean around brackets and wiring.

·Switch to a soft-bristle toothbrush, replacing it in three months’ time.

·Brush your teeth for about two minutes, looking for clear, clean brackets afterward.

·Rinse your mouth with water and/or mouthwash after you brush.

·Gargle using salt water to get quick relief for the swelling.

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