If you are noticing redness, swelling, tenderness or bleeding of the gums, this is called “gingivitis”. While anyone can experience this and is not isolated to orthodontic treatment, it is more common for teenagers to experience gum inflammation while wearing braces due to a greater challenge getting access to the tooth/gum margin because of the braces being in the way.
Gingivitis is inflammation of the gums and commonly caused by plaque/bacteria which has inadequately been removed through brushing/flossing. While this is the most common cause of inflammation it is also worth considering hormonal changes during puberty.
1. Hormonal Changes During Puberty
Teenagers undergo major hormonal changes during puberty. These changes increase blood flow to the gums and make the tissue more susceptible to plaque. Even small amounts of plaque can trigger an increased immune response, causing inflammation.
2. Difficulty Maintaining Oral Hygiene with Braces
Braces create extra surfaces and spaces for food and plaque to accumulate. If not cleaned properly, this buildup can cause gum irritation and swelling. Although cleaning around braces or orthodontic appliances can be more challenging, it is important to spend adequate time cleaning at home to prevent inflammation and other oral health issues such as decay and white spot lesions. It is also why we strongly recommend seeing your dentist for your regular 6-monthly check-ups.
If you notice any bleeding while brushing or flossing, do not avoid the area, you need to continue to brush and floss these areas. This is the gums letting you know where the plaque is present and requires more attention during cleaning.
What Can You Do?
- Brush thoroughly morning and night – minimum 2 minutes
- Floss daily using floss threaders or a water flosser
- Use interdental brushes daily to clean around brackets
- Keep up with regular dental check ups
If you have concerns about your teen’s gums during treatment, we are always here to help.