While the lasting results of modern orthodontic treatment are remarkable and certainly beautiful, the process is not without certain difficulties. Each phase of treatment carries with it certain challenges whether they are discomfort, irritation, or extra hassles. A large part of the battle is to anticipate the typical problems with braces, recognize that they may occur and know what to do when they happen.
Braces pain and irritation
Let’s face it: people fear braces because they worry that braces are painful. At times braces can be a bit uncomfortable, especially after an adjustment or tightening. The brackets and wires can irritate and abrade the skin of the mouth causing pain from braces. Also the elastics (rubber bands) that stretch between the rows of teeth and are essential for orthodontic treatment in many cases, can also make the mouth feel sore. While they take some getting used to, elastics speed up the orthodontic treatment process.
Your mouth will toughen up against the braces over time. If you have developed a callous on your hand or foot from repeated wear you know that the body finds ways to protect itself. While it is not exactly the same type of callous tissue, the mouth will become less sensitive to braces over time. Also, you may be able to use wax to cover areas that are particularly causing pain from braces. In addition, the soreness from rubber bands will improve with time as the muscles of the jaw adapt. Stick with them!
Wires poking out can cause braces pain but they are not a huge deal. If you do have a wire sticking out, did your orthodontist explain how to put it back? If so, do it carefully. If not, cover the end with wax and make an appointment to see the orthodontist.
Dental appliances and speech
If you try talking with your mouth full, it will sound different than if your mouth was empty. Braces and other dental appliances are foreign objects in the mouth. As such, they may cause a change in the sound of your speech. Braces add a bit of bulk or weight to your mouth. When you are moving your mouth to create speech, the extra weight slows down mouth movement. This changes the way that words sound to a listener (and to you). Retainers and headgear also change the way the mouth moves but also change the path that air flows out of the mouth. This can be worse than the problems with braces in some cases.
No matter what the issue with speech and dental appliances, the mouth and the brain are great at adapting. Think about people that speak in fake accents or do impressions of famous people. You will soon be able to accommodate the problems with braces on your speech and communicate very effectively.
Staying clean
Wearing braces is no time to stop performing oral hygiene. You should brush after every meal and floss or use interdental cleaners once or twice a day. You should also make sure that you continue to see your regular dentist for routine examinations and professional cleanings even while you are wearing braces. One of the problems with braces is keeping them clean and free of debris. While this is essential, it can be difficult. Ask your orthodontist and dentist for help if you feel like you are falling behind. Also, you can help minimize braces problems by avoiding certain foods .
Love and loss
Kids lose stuff. It is almost a standard part of growing up. Unfortunately most kids begin to misplace their belongings about the same time the start wearing braces or retainers. This can be unfortunate and expensive. For children it should be gently but firmly impressed upon them how important it is to remember their removable dental appliance such as a retainer. Since kids take these dental devices out at lunch, the cafeteria is often the scene of the crime. Practice with kids about checking for their retainer before leaving the lunchroom. If they are going back to class, teach them to ask themselves “Where is my retainer?”
Adults lose things, too. The biggest difference is that adults are usually directly responsible for the cost of replacement when children usually are not. Make sure your dental appliance is part of the things you always remember, like your wallet or purse.
Emergency problems with braces
Perhaps “emergency” is a slightly strong word, but there are certain occasions in which the orthodontist should be called right away. The braces problems that rise to this level are problems with the brackets. While brackets do not often break or come loose, they certainly can. If either of these things occurs, it needs to be corrected as soon as possible. Most orthodontists build time into their schedules for patients with these unexpected problems with braces—they are that important. If you do not seek prompt care, your orthodontic treatment could be in jeopardy.