9 Common Braces Side Effects

Life with Braces

Braces are deemed alpha in the world of cosmetic dentistry. And they should be because of their super-effective results. But in the process of getting the treatment, we often tend to overlook the ‘other side’ of braces. The side effects. Yes, there are advantages and disadvantages to braces. Although they are the most-recommended method when it comes to teeth straightening, there are teeth braces side effects that you must know.

It would be unfair to state that braces haven’t progressed at all. Today, people have options to choose ceramic, clear, or lingual braces besides the classic metal ones. In fact, people can now enjoy the benefits of braces in aligners, which is nothing but a modern twist on the traditional one! But more on that later in the article.

9 Common Side Effects of Wearing Braces

1. Toothache

One of the most common braces side effects is toothache. The movement of the misaligned teeth to the correct position can cause discomfort. And in worse cases, you may experience mild to severe pain.

2. Poor oral hygiene

The struggle to maintain good oral hygiene is real once you get braces. Your brushing pattern will change. It would not be as satisfying as it used to be. You might not be able to brush as satisfactorily as you used to. Also, no more flossing since the thread can get stuck in the metal brackets. So, with oral hygiene taking a toll, there can be a plaque or tartar build-up. And this increase in plaque can cause:

White spots: White spots may appear on the surface of your teeth when the plaque bacteria consume the minerals in the enamel (the outer-hard layer of the teeth). It’s also called demineralization.

Cavities: The increase in plaque can also lead to small holes, also known as cavities, which may require medical attention.

Loss of tooth: The pressure while setting up the wires and brackets may affect the pulp and cause inflammation. In rare cases, if this pressure is too much, it can lead to pulp damage or even tooth loss.

3. Food restrictions

Yup, bummer alert! You can no longer eat some of your favourite food once you get braces as there are certain food restrictions for braces that must be followed. Popcorn, candies, and other hard-chew food are off the list until the end of the treatment.

4. Gum and bone problems

Your gums and the bone structure under your teeth may get affected during the braces treatment. How? Poor oral hygiene can cause infection in the gums that can spread to the underlying bone and cause periodontitis which is one of the biggest braces side effects.

5. Eating and speech difficulties

Since you can no longer move your mouth and teeth freely because of brackets, as one of the teeth braces side effects, you might temporarily experience eating and speech difficulties (such as lisping).

6. Jaw pain

Pain in the jaw is another common disadvantage of braces. There are chances that the pain in your teeth may spread to your jaw. This usually happens during the initial stage when you are still getting used to wearing braces.

7. Allergy

Although not very common, there's a risk of allergic reactions. The rubber used to bind the metal wires and brackets may cause allergic reactions to the gums or the cheeks.

8. Yellow Teeth

Food colour may get transferred to your teeth and brackets while eating. And since maintaining good oral hygiene may be a bit difficult, it can lead to your teeth being yellow.

9. Cuts and sores

Lastly, the constant rubbing of metal wires and brackets against the inside of your mouth can lead to painful sores and cuts. This is the side effect after removing braces that needs aftercare.

makeO toothsi clear aligners- Your best alternative to painful braces

Clear aligners, unlike traditional braces, are pain-free and virtually invisible. No kidding. We call them the best-kept secret cause no one will notice that you are wearing them. And also no food restrictions! You can wear and remove your clear aligners whenever you want. They’ll let you be the boss of your smile makeover journey.

And if you are looking for a pocket-friendly + trustable brand, makeO toothsi has everything you need to get that desired smile!

Final Takeaway

Teeth straightening does not have to be an uncomfortable process anymore. With makeO toothsi, you get everything you need (comfort, convenience, and care) to get that beautiful smile. Take the route that’s most comfortable for you and get that smile you always wanted.

FAQs

What are the food restrictions after wearing braces?

You will need to stay away from crunchy foods like popcorn, wafers and ice and sticky foods like chewing gum, candies and caramel. You should also avoid hard foods like nuts, corn cobs, apples and carrots.

Crunchy foods — popcorn, chips, ice. Sticky foods — caramel candies, chewing gum. Hard foods — nuts, hard candies. Foods that require biting into — corn on the cob, apples, carrots.

Can you eat pizza with braces?

You can enjoy a pizza as long as you stay away from the crust and toppings that are too tough to bite, sticky or stringy.

Does the shape of the face change after braces?

Yes, the shape of your jawline, chin, mouth and even lips can change after wearing braces.

What happens if you have tooth decay with braces?

If you develop a cavity while wearing braces, the dentist will remove the wire on the affected tooth. It will be reattached later when the filling is complete.

Are clear aligners better than braces?

Clear aligners are preferred by working professionals over braces any day. They are more comfortable, better for oral hygiene and virtually invisible.