When you get braces put on, you are introducing new appliances to your mouth that create more traps for food
and other debris ?? and that means more places for plaque and
bacteria to collect. Brushing twice a day and flossing regularly are key to keeping your mouth clean, and
sweeping away any bacteria that collects under your braces,
between the wires, around the brackets, etc.
When you don ??t brush and floss, there is excessive bacteria growth on your teeth and between your braces. This
can cause your gums to swell or become inflamed and
irritated; they may bleed, and in some cases, they may be triggered to start growing more gum, which is called
hypertrophy or hyperplasia.
If you notice this happening to your gums, don ??t panic:
it can be easily treated by re-introducing proper oral hygiene habits!
If you are concerned or feel pain, you should contact your orthodontist.
If brushing and flossing regularly don ??t make a difference, consult your orthodontist: it is also possible
that certain medications, as well as pregnancy, could cause your
gums to swell. Or, in certain cases, the brackets of your braces could be misaligned, causing irritation to
your gums and stimulating unwanted gum growth.
