Side Effects of Wearing Braces (FULL Breakdown 2022)
Undergoing orthodontic braces is not to be taken lightly. Years of devices and wires, plastic aligners, or expanders, these take their toll on the mouth and oral region. Braces do wonders for self-esteem but sometimes you may face adverse reactions. In this post, we’ll take you through 5 side effects of wearing braces. Let’s get on it.
Contents
Do Braces Have Side Effects?
If you’re considering orthodontic treatment, be aware of the many adverse effects it may have on your mouth. These include root resorption (when teeth are removed due to tooth decay and cannot grow back,) pain from braces rubbing against sensitive gum tissue, pulpal changes which can lead to a loss in taste sensation or numbness around the lips or tongue.
Not to mention periodontal disease caused by plaque build-up that leads to inflammation as well as dental cavities. TMD is also possible since molars will often grind together while chewing if there’s uneven pressure between them because one has been moved forward with an appliance.
Can Braces Ruin Your Teeth?
Braces don’t ruin your teeth per se. The bacteria that cause cavities and tooth damage thrive in environments where food particles are abundant. So keep a close eye on brushing to avoid hurting what you’re trying to fix!
It’s important not just for your oral health but also the overall aesthetic of those pearly whites when it comes time for braces removal. That means regular flossing (or use an interdental cleaner) with extra attention around braces brackets.
Brush at least twice daily, once after breakfast or any snack foods eaten away from home. Rinse mouth well before spitting out water and spit into cup instead if possible as this helps reduce bacterial build-up in dental units like plaque which can lead to decay over time.
Do Braces Have Long Term Side Effects?
When our teeth move, they are at risk of becoming less stable. In a process called root resorption during tooth movement, some bone in the path of the moving tooth dissolves and is replaced by new bone which can lead to shorter roots on your teeth.
What are the Disadvantages of Braces?
Did you know that wearing braces can lead to tooth decay or gum disease? Braces put pressure on the teeth, which makes it difficult for them to stay clean. Gum and bone tissue can eventually pull away from under your brackets if they’re not thoroughly cleaned each day. Not only are there risks of dental problems, but allergic reactions may occur as well when eating certain foods such as nuts and strawberries.
Soft tissue injuries (such as a cracked lip) will also happen while brushing those hard-to-reach spaces in between arch wires with just fingers. Don’t forget about using mouthwash after meals too.
Main Side Effects
Root Resorption
Root resorption is the shortening of roots during treatment with braces. This can be little more than a slight diminishing in root size and shouldn’t result in any long-term oral health problems. Occasionally patients experience significant changes to their teeth as half or more of their tooth’s length diminishes.
This may cause serious changes for them down the line if left untreated. Our office takes x-rays every six months so that we can monitor your progress carefully. It’s important not to leave anything unchecked.
Decalcification
If you have braces, good dental hygiene is even more important than it would be for people without braces. Decalcification appears as white marks on the teeth and can also lead to cavities if not taken care of properly with brushing or flossing at least twice a day along with cutting back on sugar intake.
Ankylosis
Did you know that one of the most common dental complications is termed ankylosis? Ankylosized teeth are impossible to move with braces, and all surrounding teeth will start moving around it. This process can result in a misaligned mouth. If this condition looks like something your patient may have, be sure to take x-rays or perform clinical examinations for more information!
Relapsed Teeth
Achieving a beautiful smile is something that everyone wants. But if you don’t take care of it, your teeth can easily relapse back to their previous position after braces have been removed. So be sure to wear those retainers and not waste all the time and money spent on getting them straightened out in the first place!
Ulcers
Having metal braces is a new experience to the mouth, and it can take time for tissues to get accustomed. In worst-case scenarios, they have been known in some cases of causing ulcers on your lips or cheeks where there are bands that hold them together. Usually, these sores heal quickly after the stimulus has left but if you find this happening often, please contact your ortho immediately so they may help with any further issues.
It might be a while before all the cells inside adjust. The most common problem which arises from having an appliance like this would happen only when its worn over-extended ends touch inner parts of cheek tissue. And those wounds usually heal soon enough without intervention needed.
Conclusion
If you maintain good oral health techniques, it’s likely that your smile will remain perfect. Even after braces come off. We understand what it takes to keep teeth clean and straight. We also know how successful gaps can be for the smile of your dreams.
Whether you want to get a full orthodontic perfection or to cover up crookedness, we can advise you. Get in touch with our orthodontic office today to schedule your first appointment with Dr. McDermott.
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13046 Falcon Drive Baxter, MN 56425 Phone: 218-829-1630
Dr. Michael McDermott earned his Bachelor of Arts Degree in both Chemistry and Biology from St. Olaf College in Northfield, MN. He followed his undergraduate degrees with a doctorate in dental surgery at the University of Minnesota, where he graduated with highest distinction.
Dr. Mike then furthered his dental education by earning a masters and certificate in Orthodontics at the University of St. Louis in Missouri.
