Traditional braces are one of the most reliable, time-tested solutions for correcting misaligned teeth, crowded smiles, and bite issues. That said, the road to a perfect smile isn’t always perfectly smooth. It’s not uncommon to run into a challenge or two during treatment, and knowing how to handle those bumps in the road can make your experience much more comfortable. Here are some of the most common problems patients encounter with braces, as well as what to do about them.
Dull Soreness & Sensitivity
One of the most frequent issues with braces is soreness, particularly in the day or two following each adjustment appointment, as well as when they’re first put on. When your orthodontist tightens or adjusts your wires, your teeth and the surrounding tissues respond to the new pressure, which can cause dull aches and sensitivity.
The good news is that this discomfort is completely normal and temporary. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help take the edge off. Sticking to soft foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, smoothies, and soup for a day or two after adjustments will also give your teeth a break.
Poking or Prodding Brackets & Wires
The metal brackets and wires of braces can sometimes poke or rub against the soft tissues of your inner cheeks, lips, or gums, causing irritation or even small sores. This tends to be more of an issue at the beginning of treatment when your mouth is still adjusting to the hardware, but it can still happen at any time during treatment.
Orthodontic wax is your best friend here. Roll a small piece of wax between your fingers to warm and soften it, then press it over the bracket or wire that’s causing the irritation. This creates a smooth, protective barrier between the metal and your soft tissue. If a wire is persistently poking you or has come loose, contact your orthodontist so they can quickly fix it during a short visit.
Oral Hygiene Struggles
Braces create plenty of small spaces where food particles and plaque love to hide, making oral hygiene more challenging during treatment. Poor cleaning habits during orthodontic treatment can lead to tooth decay, gum inflammation, and even white spots that become visible once the braces are removed.
Brush after every meal using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste, taking care to angle the brush both above and below the brackets. An interdental brush, which looks like a small Christmas tree (without the ornaments), is especially helpful for getting in between wires and brackets. Water flossers and floss threaders can make flossing significantly easier.
Experiencing one or two issues during your braces treatment is a normal part of the process, but none of these problems should cause you long-term discomfort if addressed with the right at-home care and your orthodontist’s guidance!
About the Practice
At Simply Orthodontics, our team is proud to serve patients across Framingham and all of New England with personalized, compassionate care. We understand that traditional braces are a big commitment, and we’re here to support you every step of the way, including when unexpected challenges arise. If you have any questions about the blog or you’re ready to schedule an appointment for yourself or a loved one, don’t hesitate to call or reach out online today. Telephone: (508) 250-0170.
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