Tightening, Wire Pokes, and Ulcers
Our Danzer Orthodontics team wants to address some common concerns our patients have about braces. Dr. Danzer wants you to be in the know about your treatment. Braces are fantastic options for folks in both Owensboro and Hardinsburg. But like any new opportunity, braces have some hurdles you’ll need to clear. You might have some concerns if you just got braces or have had them for a while. Issues like tightening, wire pokes, and mouth sores can be annoying, but they can be managed with the right care.
The Basics of Braces Care
Taking good care of your braces is one of the best things you can do during your treatment. It might sound obvious. But maintenance makes marvelous things happen for your smile.
Understanding Braces
Braces work by exerting pressure on the bones and muscles around your teeth. Yes, Dr. Danzer might affix braces to your teeth. But it’s the tissues around them that we need to move. Regular adjustments help guide your treatment. Keeping your braces clean and undamaged is important, so be sure to brush after every meal and floss daily. You should also make sure to stay away from any foods that can damage your braces.
Dr. Danzer’s Role
Dr. Danzer and our team at Danzer Orthodontics are here to help you with anything that worries you about your braces. If you’re an Owensboro or Hardinsburg patient, we monitor your progress and make adjustments to your orthodontic trreatment as needed. Keep your appointments! They help us keep tabs on how your treatment is going.
Tightening of Braces
With braces, we don’t “set it and forget it.” Your braces will need attention during your treatment, and we’ll need to tighten them. It’s a regular part of treatment.
What to Expect During Tightening
When we tighten your braces, we adjust the wires to increase the force exerted on your teeth. It helps guide them into alignment. After a tightening, your teeth and gums will probably feel sore or tender for a few days. It’s normal. And, it shows that your braces are working as they should.
Managing Soreness
What can you do for your sore gums? Go for softer foods like mashed potatoes or smoothies for a day or two. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help, too. Applying orthodontic wax can make things more comfortable if your braces are rubbing or irritating the inside of your mouth. If the soreness doesn’t go away, Dr. Danzer and the team are just a call away.
Dealing with Wire Pokes
Wire pokes can be one of the more annoying parts of having braces, but they’re usually easy to fix.
Why Wire Pokes Happen
The wires on your braces might shift or extend as your teeth move. They might poke the inside of your cheeks or gums. Pokes can be uncomfortable, but it’s a sign that your braces are doing their job. Wire pokes are common, especially after adjustments. What can you do about it? Dr. Danzer has a few suggestions.
Immediate Fixes
Did you know that you can use orthodontic wax to cover the sharp end and protect your mouth if a wire pokes? If the wire is too long, carefully trim it with clean nail clippers. For persistent issues, visit our Owensboro or Hardinsburg offices. Our Danzer Orthodontics team can help with stray, pokey wires.
Ulcers and Sores
Ulcers and sores can form when braces rub against the inside of your mouth. While they can be uncomfortable, there are ways to soothe and heal them.
Causes of Ulcers
It’s not a surprise that metal rubbing against the inside of your mouth can cause problems. It’s common, especially when you’re first getting used to your braces (or after an adjustment). While these sores are usually harmless, they can make eating and talking more difficult until they heal.
Soothing Solutions
To help your ulcers heal faster, rinse your mouth with warm salt water a few times daily. You can also apply over-the-counter gels to numb the area and reduce irritation. Orthodontic wax is great for covering any brackets or wires that are causing trouble. If sores persist or become too painful, speak with Dr. Danzer and our team.
Additional Braces Concerns
Braces can come with extra challenges beyond tightening, wire pokes, and sores. Here’s how to handle some other common issues.
Tooth Discoloration
Braces can make it harder to clean your teeth. Not cleaning them thoroughly leads to plaque buildup and possible discoloration. Always brushing thoroughly, floss daily, and use mouthwash!
Bad Breath
Food can get trapped in your braces, which results in bad breath (sometimes called “halitosis”). What can you do about bad breath? You guessed right! Brush, floss, mouthwash. Repeat.
Eating Challenges
Braces can make it tricky to eat certain foods. Include soft foods and avoid anything too hard or sticky. Cutting food into smaller pieces also makes eating easier.
Speech Impediments
Braces might affect your speech, especially when you first get them. Practicing speaking, reading aloud, and giving yourself time to adjust can help improve any speech issues.
Loose Brackets or Bands
Brackets or bands can come loose. You’ll definitely notice it if you eat any hard foods. If brackets or bands get loose, contact Dr. Danzer to have them fixed. Orthodontic wax (we know we’ve mentioned it more than once, but there’s a reason!) can help until you visit the office.
Jaw Pain
Jaw pain is common after braces adjustments. Apply a warm compress or take over-the-counter pain relievers to help ease the discomfort. If it persists, Dr. Danzer can offer additional advice.
Sensational Braces at Danzer Orthodontics
At Danzer Orthodontics, Dr. Danzer and our team in Owensboro and Hardinsburg can help deal with any concerns you may have about your braces. To find out more, go here to schedule your free consultation.