Do braces cause your gums and cheeks to swell and hurt after a while?

Should not: If your gums are swollen around your braces that have been on for a while (more than a couple of weeks), it may be that you are not keeping the gums clean enough. It is important to have good brushing and flossing habits while in braces. Ask your orthodontist to evaluate your efforts.

Normally No. : Normally braces do not cause swelling of gums and cheek. Allergy to metal possible but remote. Gums can get irritated and puff up or overgrow if hygiene not good. Cheeks and lips can be cut by the brackets or poked by arch wire making them sore, slight swelling. Braces generally make the teeth and jaw hurt after most adjustments or tightening.

Depends: If you are having a difficult time maintaining well, then, you could develop swelling due to gum line irritation, trapped food particles, plaque and tartar build up. It is very important that patients with braces, become meticulous maintainers. The use of electric toothbrush and irrigator (waterpik) are especially beneficial. Gumline problems and extensive decay can occur.

Pain From Braces: Generally, each time you visit your orthodontist you will have a few days of pressure-pain and possible swelling from them tigtening the brances to move the teeth. Also, if you are not being meticulous about cleaning your teeth (brushing & flossing) you will also have swelling & pain. If it is more than a day or two, you need to talk to your orhtodontist.