Do Braces Increase Teeth Sensitivity?




Many things can cause or increase teeth sensitivity – too vigorous brushing, certain foods that stress the gums, disease that causes the gums to draw back from the teeth, leaving their dentin exposed can all cause discomfort or pain and braces can also make teeth more sensitive to heat, cold or the sweet taste. 

tooth sensitivity


One of the reasons why braces might contribute to increased sensitivity is that the device moves the teeth mechanically and even if the process is slow and gentle, it still involves permanent movement, which makes the teeth more susceptible to discomfort and pain. Other ways that braces can increase teeth sensitivity include the challenges posed by cleaning braced teeth. If braced teeth are not cleaned properly, food particles can easily get trapped between the braces and the teeth or are not removed from the small and difficult-to-reach space between the teeth. Improper oral hygiene promotes the appearance of plaque that weakens the enamel of the tooth, exposing its underlying layers and causing pain.
While the sensitivity caused by the movement of the teeth usually disappears within a few days, the discomfort caused by weakened enamel needs more attention from a Littleton orthodontist and the implementation of a correct and rigorous dental cleaning regimen, complete with brushing, flossing and swishing with a suitable mouthwash.

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