Navigating the journey to a perfect smile can come with its challenges, especially if you’re dealing with the discomfort of canker sores while wearing braces.
These small, painful ulcers can make eating, speaking, and even smiling a struggle. But don’t worry – relief is within reach!
We’ll explore practical ways to soothe the pain and accelerate 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
Understanding the differences between canker sores, mouth ulcers, cold sores, and dental abscesses is crucial for proper treatment.
Canker sores, also known as aphthous ulcers, are small, painful ulcers inside the mouth. They are not contagious and are triggered by factors like braces rubbing against soft tissues.
On the other hand, cold sores are fluid-filled blisters caused by the herpes simplex virus. They appear outside the mouth and are highly contagious.
Mouth ulcers include canker sores but can also result from other causes.
Dental abscesses are severe infections that often present as painful, pus-filled pockets near the teeth or gums and require immediate dental attention.
Differentiating these conditions helps you choose the right treatment approach and prevent further irritation.
Do Braces Cause Canker Sores?
While dental braces don’t directly cause canker sores, they can undoubtedly trigger them, especially in patients who are already prone to developing mouth sores.
The constant friction and irritation from orthodontic appliances can lead to painful ulcers in the inner mouth. To manage and prevent these sores, applying orthodontic wax, practicing good oral hygiene, and avoiding foods that can irritate oral tissue are essential.
What Causes Canker Sores?
Various factors can trigger canker sores, including braces treatment, tissue injury, immune system responses, and nutritional deficiencies.
The irritation caused by braces rubbing against soft tissues can lead to painful ulcers. Common triggers for canker sores include acidic foods, spicy foods, and food particles that irritate oral tissue. Sodium lauryl sulfate, found in some toothpastes, can also cause canker sores.
Managing stress and avoiding known triggers can help in reducing the occurrence of these painful ulcers.
How Can I Prevent Ulcers with Braces?
Preventing mouth sores from braces involves 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 by brushing and flossing regularly helps prevent food particles and bacteria from causing further irritation.
Using silicone covers over the braces can also provide an additional layer of protection.
Avoiding acidic and spicy foods and practicing good oral hygiene can further prevent canker sores from developing.
Orthodontic Wax
Orthodontic wax is a soft, pliable material that can be applied to the brackets and wires of braces to prevent them from irritating the soft tissues in your mouth.
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 sleep with the wax on your braces, providing continuous protection and comfort throughout the night.
Silicone Covers
Silicone covers are a more durable alternative to orthodontic wax, providing long-lasting protection against the irritation caused by braces.
These covers fit over the brackets and wires, creating a smooth barrier that prevents friction with the inner mouth.
They are reusable and can be easily removed for cleaning, making them a convenient option for braces patients looking to prevent mouth sores.
Brush and Floss
Brushing and flossing regularly is crucial for maintaining oral hygiene and preventing mouth sores from braces.
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean around the brackets and wires gently, and floss carefully to remove food particles and plaque from between the teeth.
This helps minimize bacteria and reduces the risk of worsening canker sores. Good oral hygiene can significantly minimize discomfort and promote overall oral health during 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, use over-the-counter medications like topical gels or mouth rinses containing ingredients like benzocaine or hydrogen peroxide.
Book Your Next Orthodontic Check-Up with Dr. Lee Now!
Contact Patuxent 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, call (240) 802-7217, or message us through our Contact Us page to connect with our friendly staff today and book a complimentary consultation!
Our office, located at 44220 Airport View Dr., Hollywood, MD 20636, proudly serves Maryland’s Patuxent area, as well as the Greater Washington DC area. So, if you’re residing in Hollywood, Wildewood, or Leonardtown and are looking for one of the best orthodontists in Maryland, don’t hesitate to visit our office!
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