For some patients, getting braces treatment is accompanied by feelings of dry mouth. In this video, Diamond Braces Chief Clinical Officer Dr. Oleg Drut explains why this might happen and what to do about it.
Why Are My Teeth Dry with Braces?
Braces introduce a new appliance to your mouth, which can cause your body to react. The bracket and wire take up space in your mouth, and one way your mouth might react to that new experience is to produce less saliva in the salivary glands. This can make your mouth feel dry.
It is a normal occurrence during braces treatment, so don ??t be alarmed. In most cases, your mouth will adjust to the feeling of braces after a few days. For others, it may be an ongoing experience throughout braces treatment.
Either way, there are easy ways to deal with mouth dryness during your orthodontic care. And it is important to keep your mouth well-hydrated because a dry mouth can provide a breeding ground for bacteria.
What Should I Do About a Dry Mouth with Braces?
The best thing to do about dry mouth during braces treatment is to drink lots of water to stay hydrated. Remember the 8-8 rule: try to drink 8 glasses of water a day, each one 8 oz.
It can help to get a water bottle and keep it with you while you work or go to school. Some people also set a timer to remember to drink more water. If your mouth feels dry, of course, just keep drinking water to keep it hydrated.
You can also change your diet: avoid spicy or salty foods, which soak up moisture in your mouth and can make the dryness worse. You can also stimulate saliva production by chewing gum, or sucking on a cough drop, peppermint, or sugar-free hard candy (just remember not to bite down and potentially hurt your braces!)
And because a dry mouth can stimulate more bacteria growth, it ??s very important to go for regular teeth cleanings from your general dentist every 6 months.
Proper Oral Hygiene Helps to Keep Your Teeth, Mouth, and Braces Clean and Healthy
The best way to keep your mouth well hydrated and your braces clean is to maintain proper oral hygiene every day.
Be sure to brush thoroughly with toothpaste twice a day and floss every night, and use an alcohol-free mouthwash, preferably fortified with fluoride. Learn more about proper oral healthcare.
Keeping your mouth fresh and healthy will keep your braces treatment on track, and your smile beautiful and happy for years to come!
