Navigating the journey to a perfect smile can have its challenges, especially when dealing with the discomfort of canker sores while wearing braces.
These small, painful ulcers can make eating, speaking, and even smiling difficult. But don’t worry – relief is within reach!
Let’s explore practical ways to soothe the pain and speed up the healing process so you can focus on the positive aspects of your orthodontic treatment and enjoy a smoother path to a beautiful smile.
Canker Sores vs. Mouth Ulcers vs. Cold Sores and Dental Abscesses
Knowing the distinctions between canker sores, mouth ulcers, cold sores, and dental abscesses is key to getting the right treatment.
Canker sores, or aphthous ulcers, are those annoying little painful ulcers you get inside your mouth.
They’re not catchy, thankfully, and often flare up when braces rub against your mouth’s sensitive spots.
Cold sores, in contrast, are fluid-filled blisters caused by the herpes simplex virus. They usually show up around the mouth and are easily spread from person to person.
Mouth ulcers, including canker sores, cover a broader range but stem from various other reasons.
Dental abscesses are serious infections, showing up as painful, pus-filled pockets near your teeth or gums, and they demand prompt dental care.
Understanding the differences between these conditions helps select the appropriate treatment and avoid additional irritation.
Do Braces Cause Canker Sores?
While dental braces themselves don’t directly cause canker sores, they can undoubtedly trigger them, especially in individuals who are already susceptible to developing mouth sores.
Constant friction and irritation from orthodontic appliances can result in painful ulcers inside the mouth. To manage and prevent these sores, it’s crucial to use orthodontic wax, maintain good oral hygiene practices, and steer clear of foods irritating oral tissues.
What Causes Canker Sores?
Several factors, such as braces treatment, tissue injury, immune system reactions, and nutritional deficiencies, can trigger canker sores.
The irritation from braces rubbing against soft tissues can result in painful ulcers. Common triggers for canker sores include acidic and spicy foods and food particles that irritate oral tissue. Additionally, sodium lauryl sulfate, found in certain toothpastes, can also contribute to the development of canker sores.
Managing stress and avoiding known triggers can be beneficial in reducing the occurrence of these painful ulcers.
How Can I Prevent Ulcers with Braces?
Preventing mouth sores from braces requires a combination of proper care and preventive measures.
Applying orthodontic wax to areas where braces rub against the inner mouth can significantly reduce irritation.
Maintaining good oral hygiene through regular brushing and flossing is crucial to prevent food particles and bacteria from causing additional irritation.
Using silicone covers over the braces can also add an extra layer of protection.
Avoiding acidic and spicy foods, along with consistent oral hygiene practices, further helps prevent the development of canker sores.
Orthodontic Wax
Orthodontic wax is a soft, pliable material used to cover the brackets and wires of braces, preventing them from irritating the soft tissues in your mouth.
To apply it, pinch off a small piece of wax, roll it into a ball, and place it over the areas causing discomfort. This helps reduce friction and prevent painful ulcers.
You can even keep the wax on your braces while sleeping, ensuring continuous protection and comfort throughout the night.
Silicone Covers
Silicone covers offer a durable alternative to orthodontic wax, providing extended protection against the irritation caused by braces.
These covers fit snugly over the brackets and wires, forming a smooth barrier that reduces friction inside the mouth.
They are reusable and can be quickly removed for cleaning, making them a convenient choice for braces patients seeking to prevent mouth sores.
Brush and Floss
Regular brushing and flossing are essential for maintaining oral hygiene and preventing mouth sores caused by braces.
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently clean around the brackets and wires, and floss carefully to remove food particles and plaque from between the teeth.
This helps reduce bacteria and lowers the risk of aggravating canker sores.
Good oral hygiene plays a significant role in minimizing discomfort and promoting overall oral health throughout orthodontic treatment.
5 Best Home Remedies for Canker Sores
- Saltwater Rinse: Gargling with warm salt water can reduce inflammation and promote healing.
- Hydrogen Peroxide: Applying a diluted hydrogen peroxide solution to the affected area can help kill bacteria and prevent infection.
- Baking Soda Paste: Mixing baking soda with water to create a paste and applying it to the sore can neutralize acids and soothe pain.
- Honey: Applying honey to the canker sore can provide relief due to its natural antibacterial properties.
- Aloe Vera: Using aloe vera gel can help reduce pain and promote sore healing.
How Can I Alleviate Pain from Canker Sores?
To alleviate pain from canker sores, you can use over-the-counter medications such as topical gels or mouth rinses that contain ingredients like benzocaine or hydrogen peroxide. These products can help provide relief and promote healing of the sores.
Book Your Next Orthodontic Check-Up with Dr. Lee Today!
Contact Loudoun Orthodontics if orthodontic care is the solution to your dental woes. Whether you want to learn more about the benefits of orthodontic care or have questions about the process, use our live chat or call (703) 858-0303 or message us through our Contact Us page to connect with our friendly staff today and book a complimentary consultation!
Our office, located at 19465 Deerfield Ave. Suite 304, Leesburg, VA 20176, proudly serves the Loudoun County area, as well as the Lansdowne, VA area. So, if you’re residing in Ashburn, Leesburg, or Sterling and are looking for one of the best orthodontists in Northern Virginia, don’t hesitate to visit our office!
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