5718 Balcones Dr., Austin, TX 78731
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Tightening, Wire Pokes, and Ulcers
Austin Orthodontic Arts wants to address some common braces concerns for our Austin patients. Did Dr. Naj or Dr. Salome recently fit you with braces? Or, it could be that you’re several months into your braces treatment. Either way, it’s normal to have some concerns. Issues like tightening, wire pokes, and ulcers can make your braces treatment challenging. But don’t worry—knowing what to expect and how to deal with these challenges can make a huge difference.
The Basics of Braces Care
If you have braces, you’ve got to take care of them. No “ifs,” “ands,” or “buts.” With the right routine, you can keep your teeth healthy and your braces working like they should.
Understanding Braces
Braces gradually shift your teeth into better alignment. They do it with consistent pressure. Regular adjustments from our Austin Orthodontic Arts team help them work correctly. Keeping your braces clean helps them do their job.
The Role of Dr. Naj and Dr. Salome
Dr. Naj and Dr. Salome carefully monitor the progress of your braces treatment. Our team in Austin makes adjustments as needed. Our expertise and attention to detail help you achieve the best results with minimal hassle.
Tightening of Braces
Tightening braces is a regular part of orthodontic care. It’s how our team keeps your treatment moving forward.
What to Expect During Tightening
When our Austin Orthodontic Arts team tightens your braces, we adjust the wires to apply more pressure on your teeth. It helps move them into their new positions. You might feel soreness or tenderness for a few days after tightening. It’s normal, and it means your braces are doing their job.
Tips for Relief
Stick to soft foods like yogurt or soup. Over-the-counter pain relievers can also help. Apply orthodontic wax to any spots where your braces might rub. It’ll make things more comfortable for you. If the soreness doesn’t go away, reach out to Dr. Naj or Dr. Salome for advice.
Managing Wire Pokes
Wire pokes are no fun! But they’re not unheard of during braces treatment. Thankfully, they’re easily manageable with a few simple steps.
Why Wire Pokes Occur
As your teeth relocate during treatment, the wires in your braces can sometimes extend or move out of place. They’ll get a bit too close up and personal with your cheeks or gums. This can be irritating and uncomfortable. Pokes are usually a sign that your teeth are moving as planned, but Dr. Naj and Dr. Salome need to know about it so they can help you.
Immediate Solutions
If a wire starts poking you, use orthodontic wax to shield yourself from the sharp end and protect your mouth. If the wire is too long, carefully trim it. Dr. Naj or Dr. Salome can adjust the wire at your next appointment to keep you comfortable.
Ulcers and Sores
Braces can sometimes cause ulcers or sores inside your mouth. There are ways to soothe the irritation and keep your mouth feeling good.
Causes of Ulcers
Ulcers and sores often develop when braces chafe against the soft tissues of your mouth. This friction can create small, painful spots. While these sores are common, they can make eating and speaking harder than they need to be.
Home Remedies
To ease the pain of ulcers, rinse your mouth with saltwater several times daily. Over-the-counter gels or ointments can also provide relief by numbing the area. Use orthodontic wax on any brackets or wires, causing irritation. You’ll prevent further sores from developing.
Additional Braces Concerns
Beyond tightening, wire pokes, and ulcers, a few other concerns might arise during your braces treatment. Here’s how to handle them.
Tooth Discoloration
Braces can make it a little harder to keep your teeth clean, and Dr. Naj and Dr. Salome understand that. To keep your smile bright, remember to brush after every meal, floss daily, and use a fluoride mouthwash. Regular dental cleanings are crucial to maintaining even tooth color throughout treatment.
Bad Breath
Bad breath (also called “halitosis”) can be a common issue with braces. It happens because food particles easily get trapped between the brackets. To keep your breath fresh and crisp, brush and floss regularly, paying close attention to areas around the brackets. A quick swish with mouthwash can help, too. Our Austin team suggests that you stay hydrated and avoid strong-smelling foods.
Eating Challenges
Braces can make eating certain foods difficult or uncomfortable. Hard, sticky, or crunchy treats can hurt your braces or cause discomfort. Go for softer foods like mashed potatoes, pasta, and smoothies. Slicing and dicing your food into smaller pieces can also help you eat more comfortably.
Speech Impediments
It’s normal for braces to affect your speech, mainly when they’re first applied. You might notice a slight lisp or difficulty pronouncing certain sounds. Practice speaking and reading aloud. Give yourself time to adjust. Most speech issues improve as your mouth gets used to the braces.
Loose Brackets or Bands
Brackets or bands can sometimes become loose. Especially after eating hard foods or if you accidentally bump your mouth. If this happens, reach out to Dr. Naj or Dr. Salome to have them reattached.
Jaw Pain
Jaw pain can occur after adjustments as your braces work to move your teeth. Try using a warm compress on your jaw or taking over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers to ease the discomfort. If the pain persists or worsens, it’s a good idea to contact our Austin Orthodontic Arts team for further advice.
The Support from Austin Orthodontic Arts
At Austin Orthodontic Arts, Dr. Naj and Dr. Salome understand that braces can take some getting used to. Our Austin team takes a personalized approach to your issues with braces. If you have more questions, go here to schedule your free consultation.