Swollen Gum with Braces: Causes and Prevention

Do your gums appear swollen after getting fixed with braces? Are your gums tender and seem to bleed while brushing or flossing? This is a common complaint of patients with braces which can be easily prevented. So, why does it happen? What makes the gums swell, especially after getting braces?

Swollen gum is a symptom of gum diseases like gingivitis and periodontitis. The most common culprit of gum disease is the accumulation of plaque. Plaque is a haven for disease-causing bacteria. These bacteria metabolize sugars from the food we consume and, as a result, release toxic and acidic byproducts. These byproducts are responsible for the generation of an inflammatory response which in turn leads to gum diseases. Some of the most common symptoms of gum diseases happen to be bleeding, tender and swollen gums. You may experience increased discomfort due to this. 

Moreover, forces are applied to the misaligned teeth during orthodontic treatment to make them come in their proper position. This force also has an effect on the gums and leads to a small amount of inflammation. This is a normal phenomenon that occurs every time the wires are tightened. However, the presence of bacterial-laden plaque during the course of braces makes you highly susceptible to inflammatory conditions like gum diseases. These gum diseases can even progress, lead to treatment failure and loose teeth if not treated at the earliest by our orthodontist at Wilmington Orthodontic center. 

So, what can you do to prevent swollen gums with braces?

The golden rule for preventing any kind of oral inflammatory condition is following an impeccable oral health care routine. Make sure you brush your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and a fluoridated toothpaste. In addition, use a piece of floss at least once daily, and do not forget to rinse your mouth after every meal. It is important to ensure no food residue remains in the mouth as this can cause bacterial accumulation. Dr. Pancko at Wilmington Orthodontic Center may also suggest some oral health practices; please ensure you are following them to avoid any complications like swollen gums from arising. If you have any more questions, please feel free to reach out to us; our team of excellent dental professionals will be there to assist you.