Braces come with many advantages — they are one of the most reliable ways to correct dental misalignment. However, they do have a few downsides, including the fact that in some cases, they are accompanied by swelling of the gum tissue. What are some reasons for swollen gums with braces in Needham, and what can you do to relieve this problem? Read on below to find the answers.
Oral Hygiene
Braces require that you adapt to a new, more detailed oral hygiene routine than what you previously may have been used to. Missteps in keeping your teeth clean during orthodontic treatment could allow plaque and bacteria to accumulate along your gumline, causing the tissue to become irritated and inflamed.
Fortunately, this issue is often easy to fix. With some adjustments to your brushing and flossing habits, you may be able to rid your mouth of harmful bacteria and allow your gums to heal. For example, you might spend more time brushing along the gumline or purchase a water flosser to help you clean the tight spaces between your teeth.
Of course, if the swelling worsens or does not subside within a reasonable amount of time, you should seek your dentist’s guidance. You might have gingivitis, an early form of gum disease, which should be managed with the help of a professional.
Tooth Movements
Braces apply constant pressure to the teeth, causing them to move bit by bit. Those tooth movements may cause the gum tissue to swell a little and feel uncomfortable. This issue may be particularly noticeable immediately after your braces’ arch wires get tightened.
To find relief, sip on cool water and avoid eating any crunchy foods that might further irritate your gum tissue. You should also continue to be diligent about keeping your mouth clean via regular brushing and flossing. In most cases, the discomfort associated with braces adjustments subsides after a few days.
Gingival Hyperplasia
Gingival hyperplasia is a relatively rare condition that causes the gum tissue to grow and extend farther over the teeth. It may be triggered by gum irritation or a buildup of bacteria along the gumline.
In some cases, increased or improved oral hygiene can help to lessen gingival hyperplasia. After your braces are removed, the condition may reverse itself within 6 – 8 weeks. However, if you find that your gums still look enlarged after that amount of time, you may need to get them surgically trimmed. A minimally invasive procedure known as gum recontouring can remove excess gum tissue in Needham, expose more of the dentition underneath, and allow your smile to have a more balanced, proportionate appearance.
Swollen gums with braces can be an annoying problem. Fortunately, it is usually a temporary issue that can be addressed via improved oral hygiene or other simple measures.
Meet the Practice
The talented team of general dentists and specialists at Gillis Dental is proud to offer traditional braces, clear aligners, and a wide range of other treatments. If you have questions about what to expect while you are undergoing orthodontic care, we would be pleased to speak with you. Contact us at 781-202-6357.