Swollen gums w/ braces?!
Question:
Swollen gums w/ braces?
i just got my braces tightened today,and the ortho said my gums were very swollen,and that i should floss more.
i flossed as soon as i got home,and my gums started to bleed A LOT!
is that good/bad?
when will the swelling go down?
thank you!!
Answers:
It is common with braces to see the gums get swollen and infected with gingivitis. It is almost positively gingivitis since the gums will bleed as a result. If you haven't had a dental cleaning with a hygienist or dentist recently you should have an appointment. They will remove the buildup (soft plaque and hard tartar) so you can then brush and floss effectively. Generally the more diligent you are with brushing, flossing and rinsing the better your gums will respond. You should be brushing at least 2-3 times a day with floss and listerine or salt water. You may also be experiencing hormonal fluctuations that are causing the gums to be inflammed. I actually have some ortho patients that come in for cleanings every 3 months instead of every 6 months. Generally after the braces are off the swelling will reduce some as you are able to get at the gums better. You might also consider getting an electric toothbrush and (my personal favorite when I had braces) a proxybrush.
JAMRDH - a dental hygienist