Here’s Everything You Need to Know About Swollen Gums Caused by Braces

If you have ever had braces in your life, you know that swollen or inflamed gums are relatively common. Having said that, it doesn’t make them any less frustrating and painful. While most of the time the swelling and the pain in the gums after getting braces is nothing to worry about, in some cases, you might have to see a dentist or an orthodontist to ensure that your braces treatment is right on track.

In this article, we will share with you everything you must know about swollen gums caused by braces. Right from- why it happens, treatment, and home remedies to preventive measures you can take to avoid suffering from them, we will cover them all.

Causes of swollen gums

There are several reasons which can lead to swollen gums when you wear braces. Here are some of the most common causes of swollen gums due to braces.

• Gingivitis
• Teeth movement
• Gingival enlargement
• Pregnancy Gingivitis
• Poor oral hygiene
• Underlying health conditions like diabetes or obesity

Home remedies & treatment for swollen gums caused by braces

There are numerous swollen gums treatments and home remedies that will help to reduce pain and swelling caused by braces. However, swollen gums caused by gingivitis or some other more serious cause will need professional intervention.

1. Laser treatment

If your case of swollen gums is caused by gingival enlargement, then you might have to seek help from your orthodontist. Your orthodontist will most probably remove the diseased gum tissue with the help of a laser.

2. Regular cleaning and checkups

Swollen gums caused by gingivitis often require dental cleanups and checkups by your dentist or orthodontist.

3. Flossing after meals

Wondering how flossing helps with gum swelling ? Plaque or food particles stuck in between your teeth can further irritate your swollen and inflamed gums. By flossing your teeth religiously after your meals, you can avoid this situation. Head over to the makeO website to get your hands on makeO toothsi’s smart water flosser which will give you unparalleled results.

4. Over-the-counter medication

You can consider taking over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications that will help to soothe your tender and swollen gums. However, it is best if you consult your orthodontist or dentist before considering consuming them.

5. Avoid certain foods

We are talking about hard and sticky foods which will get stuck in between your teeth and irritate your swollen and inflamed gums. We recommend you consume fluids and indulge in soft foods which will not cause you any further discomfort.

6. Salt water rinse

You can consider switching warm water with salt to soothe your tender and swollen gums. Do this multiple times a day for the best result.

3 Preventive tips for swollen tips

It’s difficult to avoid swelling of gums while wearing braces but you can try some tips and hacks that will help to ensure that the swelling isn’t too severe. Here are 3 preventive tips for swollen gums caused by braces.

1. Switch to an electric toothbrush

Ditch your manual toothbrush and invest in an electric toothbrush which has a soft brush head. Looking for a smart toothbrush that is amazing and affordable? Bring home makeO toothsi’s electro that comes with 5 unique brushing modes, which is perfect for kids and adults alike.

2. Invest in an antibacterial mouthwash

Make sure that you always rinse with an antibacterial mouthwash after brushing your teeth to kill germs in between your teeth which can irritate your swollen gums.

3. Have a good oral hygiene

Want to know the most effective way to prevent swollen gums with braces? It’s simple. Rise to the occasion and elevate your oral care game after you get braces. We recommend that you brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss daily to get healthy teeth and gums.

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FAQs:

Which food items to avoid if you have swollen gums caused by braces?

You must avoid eating foods that can easily get trapped in between your teeth like hard candy, popcorn, caramel, corn, etc.

How can I shrink my gums after braces?

Indulge in a salt water mouth rinse several times a day to shrink your gums after braces.

Do gums swell after braces are removed?

Yes, it is common for your gums to swell and mildly bleed after your braces are removed. However, if this persists for long, we recommend you consult your dentist or orthodontist immediately.

Are swollen gums after braces permanent?

No, you need not worry about swollen gums being a permanent condition. Typically, they vanish in a couple of days and your gums will get back to their normal shape and size.