Swollen gums with braces. what should i do?

Consult: Consult with your orthodontist or other dental health professional about how to remedy the current situation and how to prevent further problems from occurring. Wax, as mentioned elsewhere is no remedy at all for this.

Ask for help: If you have swollen gums, then you need specific instructions from your orthodontist on home care with your tooth brush and floss. More frequent visits with your family dentist for cleanings and check-ups during braces are also recommended.

Cleaner: Usually due to gum irritation from dental plaque (bacteria + food debris). You may need to clean better between teeth with floss, water pik, interdental stimulator, rubber tip, etc. See both your family dentist and your orthodontist for help. They may suggest referral to a periodontist (gum specialist) for evaluation and rx.

Swollen gums: Usually swollen gums are not caused by the braces themselves. Not thoroughly removing bacteria from the tooth surfaces between the braces and the gum line causes swelling. The bacteria produce enzymes that literally begin digesting your gums. See dentist for thorough professional cleaning. Then see orthodontic specialist for specific orthodontic oral hygiene instructions.

Visit your dentist: It is common with braces to see the gums get swollen and infected. Usually swollen gums occur due lack of regular cleaning and flossing. Take especially good care of your teeth and your gums during orthodontic treatment.