Cuts in Mouth from Braces

Cuts in mouth from braces can be painful, but they usually will not have a negative impact on health. Braces are used to correct various oral problems, but it does take some time to adjust to having the appliance in the mouth. During the adjustment, patients may get minor cuts or areas of irritation. Dealing with this normal side effect of having braces isn’t as difficult as many people think.

Can Braces Cause Cuts in Your Mouth?

Yes, braces can cause cuts in the mouth for various reasons. Among the issues with braces, patients often experience swellings and soreness in the mouth when braces are first placed. This is because the inside of the mouth is adjusting to the new brackets and wires.

The brackets may initially cut into the cheeks and be uncomfortable on rare occasions. After a while, the tissues will adapt (similar to a callous), and cutting will become uncommon.

Braces have become stronger and more compact, lowering the chances of causing irritation. There are still times when patients get mouth injuries due to braces. Causes may differ from scenario to scenario, but broken wires or loose bands are the most common reasons for cuts in the mouth from braces.

Patients might experience soreness and some ulcers inside their mouth at the beginning of treatment. Fortunately, there are plenty of things that can help patients suffering from minor irritation.

Is It Normal to Get Cuts in Mouth from Braces Cuts?

It is normal to get cuts from braces, although, hopefully, most patients will avoid the occurrence during their treatment. Many people complete their treatment without getting cuts in the mouth from braces. Sometimes, the tongue might feel sore or receive minor scratches by the wire (especially with lingual braces).

Cuts from Braces Due to Accidental Contact

Most orthodontic patients are young and participate in sports or activities that increase their chances of sustaining a mouth injury during treatment.

Mouth injuries can be very painful, especially when wearing braces. Protecting braces while participating in sports can help to prevent severe damage and keep the teeth and lips safe. Mouth guards, for example, can protect teeth during sports participation and prevent costly repairs. Parents can protect their child’s teeth while wearing braces with these tips!

Can Cuts in the Mouth from Braces Become Infected?

It is very rare for cuts in the mouth to become infected. However, if you don’t treat cuts and oral injuries properly, they can become infected like any other type of injury.

How Long Will Cuts in the Mouth from Braces Last?

Cuts from braces heal just like every other cut in the mouth. It usually takes about four days for the discomfort to go away and a few days extra for the wounds to completely heal. Friction between the braces and the surface can sometimes cause delayed healing.

It is also common to experience minor pain in the cheeks for about a week after receiving braces for the first time. The soreness will disappear once the mouth becomes accustomed to the metal brackets. The inside of the mouth will become tougher after a few weeks, and any irritations should go away.

How to Prevent Cuts from Braces Due to Irritation

Even with the best care, braces can occasionally irritate the mouth at the beginning of treatment. There are plenty of tips and tricks to prevent braces from causing irritation.

Use Orthodontic Wax

Dental wax is the most commonly used method for relieving cuts in the mouth from braces. Make a barrier with the wax between the inside of the mouth and the metal braces. This application will prevent sores by reducing rubbing and protecting cheeks from irritation.

Wear Mouth Guards and Lip Protectors

A mouth guard is one of the best tools for protecting the mouth and braces. Athletes who wear braces are more likely to sustain a severe and costly mouth injury. The brackets and wires in braces can knock out or damage several adjacent teeth. Using a mouth guard is a vital tool to protect orthodontic hardware.

Brace mouth guards are typically wider than standard mouthguards to cover the braces, teeth, and gums and still be comfortable for the user.

Unlike mouth guards that are large and bulky, a lip protector is a clear, flexible bumper that wraps around the braces in the mouth. Lip protectors are an excellent way to protect lips and gums from the discomfort of metal brackets. While they are certainly beneficial for people who are new to braces, they are also helpful for musicians or athletes who do not require a mouthguard but want additional protection from cuts and sores.

Drink Cold Water

Cold beverages can help alleviate the discomfort caused by braces cutting into the mouth. To alleviate any discomfort inside the mouth, sip cold water through a straw, eat a popsicle, or suck on an ice cube.

What to Do When a Part of Your Braces Causes You Discomfort

• Loose brackets: Temporarily apply a small amount of orthodontic wax to the bracket.
• Loose bands: The orthodontist should tighten all loose bands. If they fall off, try to keep the band for future repairs.
• Protruding wires: Carefully move the wire to a less painful location. Apply orthodontic wax to the tip if unable to move it.
• Loose spacers: Reposition or completely replace them.

Even though the patient can perform many quick-fix solutions, the orthodontist should examine braces as soon as possible if adjustments are needed.

Mouth Injuries with Braces

While not all mouth injuries are severe, having one can be excruciatingly painful. Braces can exacerbate mouth injuries because the appliance can touch a wound or sometimes cut the cheeks or tongue. Braces are also prone to breaking and poking into the mouth, causing damage, so patients need to protect their mouths. Protective gear can protect patients’ teeth and braces from injury without requiring them to give up their favorite sports or activities.

Have More Questions About Cuts in the Mouth from Braces?

If you or your teen still have questions about cuts in the mouth from braces, don’t hesitate to get in touch with Pezoldt Orthodontics. You can also book an appointment with Dr. Pezoldt.

Visit the orthodontist regularly for checkups and adjustments. If you have additional questions, please feel free to call one of our offices:

Modesto — (209) 231-9601

Oakdale — (209) 255-5736

The entire staff at Pezoldt Orthodontics is eager to help!