Can braces cut your tongue?

Patients throughout the country have benefitted from braces by having straighter teeth and healthier smiles. Orthodontic treatment often leaves patients feeling more confident and happier with their appearance. As a result, they are not likely to experience tooth decay, TMJ, and other severe complications. However, braces do have some drawbacks as well. Most patients get worried that braces will cut their tongue or lips before getting treatment.

Additionally, braces can cause discomfort and pain in the tongue. A metal bracket, wire, or another component can cut or irritate your tongue or mouth, regardless of its material. It takes a few weeks for the area around braces to toughen and adjust, but you can do a few things to ease the pain until that happens.

There are several ways to relieve pain caused by braces:

• A dentist or orthodontic specialist can provide you with dental wax.
• Use saltwater to rinse the mouth.
• Prescribed pain relievers like Advil, Tylenol, etc.
• Applying a numbing cream to areas of soreness.
• Gently chewing or biting on sugar-free gum or food.
• Consuming soft foods and avoiding hard, sticky or chewy foods.
• To brush your tongue, use a toothbrush or soft dental brush.

Typically, braces cause cuts due to broken wires or loose bands. In addition, numerous approved ointments can help patients who have braces-related cuts or discomfort. Patients usually visit their dentist several times following their initial braces fitting in case they experience any long-term tongue pain, chewing, or eating issues.

However, you must know that braces do not cause cuts or discomfort to patients when they are applied correctly by a highly experienced and skilled orthodontist. If any part of your braces becomes loose, damaged, or broken, patients should immediately contact a qualified orthodontist or other dental professionals.

Schedule your appointment with a dentist today and get the treatment on time!