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  • Writer's pictureRitika Mehdiratta

Do you have a Poking Brace Wire?

If your braces are fitted properly, they should not cause your gums to bleed. The challenge is that when you wear braces you have to be particularly careful to keep your teeth and gums clean.

Why does brace wire poke?

Though, poking brace wire is the most common discomfort reported. It can be caused by the following-

· Improper eating habits

· Wrongful dental cleaning beliefs

· Accident / traumas

· Loosening of brace

· Broken brace or wire


Likewise, if you feel any of the above mentioned discomforts when you wear your braces, you should visit your orthodontist to discuss a solution.


Personal Anecdote: I remember the first time, I wore braces. I still do. When my orthodontist tightens the wire, my teeth pain for days. I have to eat soft foods and avoid sticky stuff. One day, unfortunately I had a car accident in which my wiring and brace placement got disturbed and the wire started poking my gingiva, which led to bad gum soring and bleeding. I immediately consulted my orthodontist and booked an appointment to find a cure. Even though, the journey seems painful and difficult. But the endpoint is promising, and the reward is a beautiful wide smile.

So, if you are in between the process, I would like to say ‘hang in there!’ and if you are thinking about having braces ‘go for it at the earliest!’


Why do gums bleed when having braces?

Wearing braces can make your gums more vulnerable. Sometimes, food particles and calculus get stuck inside or around them, which if not cleaned away, may lead to the build-up of plaque bacteria, one of the main causes of gingivitis (bleeding gums).



How to heal bleeding or sored gums with braces?

· Use a soft-bristled toothbrush

· Use an orthodontic floss threader

· Use a mouthwash

· Use orthodontic wax provided

· Eat soft foods that are easy to swallow

· Rinse your mouth with warm salt water right after meals (in order to prevent cuts on gums and swelling)


Why do cuts develop on lips when wearing braces?

How to prevent this?

When wearing braces, your lips can dry out as they stretch wider over teeth. A lip balm or petroleum jelly can help soothe dry or chapped lips. If you find that your braces are chaffing against your lips. Please consult your orthodontist immediately.



Glimmer of hope:

Braces aren’t for eternity. All the swelling, cuts, bleeding, pain is momentary. Keep in mind the beautiful, healthy smile awaiting you at the end of your orthodontic treatment. So, enjoy your time with braces but remember to keep them clean.



Share this post with teenagers, and help them with this discomfort.

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Thank you for reading!

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