Side effects of having braces

Of course we all know that braces are the tried and tested method for getting a straight, even smile. However, getting braces from your dentist in Northbrook IL, whether it is for a cosmetic reason or to correct a poor bite, can come with a variety of issues and side effects. Keep reading for all the information you need to know before having braces fitted onto your teeth.

1. They Can Be a Major Source of Discomfort

Having braces can be uncomfortable or even painful at times, but by far the vast majority of patients experience the most pain right after they have had their braces tightened. Your dentist Northbrook IL might recommend you have the wires connecting your braces tightened every month or so. This can encourage your teeth to gradually realign themselves, but it can cause the application of extra pressure and can cause oral pain.

2. Having Braces Means You Need to Pay More Attention to Hygiene

While having braces does not automatically mean that you will suffer from tooth decay or gum disease, but it does require you to be more vigilant about cleanliness. Consider brushing and flossing your teeth directly after each meal. This will flush food particles out of the little nooks and crannies that braces create.

3. You May Suffer an Injury

A lot of the time, a wire on your braces might come loose and cause a small cut inside your mouth, either in your cheek or on your gums. In addition to this type of injury, you may experience a mouth ulcer or sore as a result of the braces rubbing against the sensitive skin in your mouth. Once you develop sores or cuts in your mouth, it becomes even more crucial to keep the inside of your mouth clean. Braces can transmit food particles that can further irritate a sensitive area. Northbrook dental care can take care of all of this for you.

4. De-Calcification of Your Teeth

Once your dentist in Northbrook IL fits you with a set of braces, it is of the utmost importance to keep them squeaky clean. If you do not regularly and vigorously remove plaque from your teeth, they can suffer from loss of calcification. As well as plaque, a common culprit in this form of tooth decay is a diet that is high in sugar. Not removing all food particles from your teeth and braces can cause sugar that is left behind to attack your teeth.