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.
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.