Table of contents:
- How to treat swollen gums due to using stirrups
- 1. Use a soft toothbrush
- 2. Compress the mouth with ice cubes
- 3. Avoid activities that can irritate braces
- 4. Reduce sugar consumption
Braces, aka stirrups, are installed to straighten and repair messy teeth or misaligned jaws. However, many complain of swollen gums due to stirrups. So, how do you treat swollen gums with braces?
How to treat swollen gums due to using stirrups
If you have just fitted braces, you may experience discomfort, pain, and difficulty chewing. Do not stop there, usually the gums will also be swollen because of using stirrups.
In fact, this is natural because you are adapting to a new tool in your mouth. However, if left untreated, it will cause irritation or bigger mouth problems. Well, there are several ways you can treat swollen gums due to using stirrups.
1. Use a soft toothbrush
If you use braces, choose a soft toothbrush and brush your teeth at least twice a day. Usually, the recommended type of toothbrush is an interdental toothbrush. Interdental toothbrushes are more effective at removing adhered tooth plaque.
Well, this method is enough to treat swelling of the gums due to the use of stirrups. The reason is, by regularly brushing your teeth with a soft brush, there will be no plaque or dirt accumulating. After brushing your teeth, use antibacterial mouthwash or warm water mixed with salt.
2. Compress the mouth with ice cubes
One of the simplest ways to treat swollen gums is applying an ice cube compress on the outside of the mouth or drinking cold water can also reduce pain in the mouth and reduce swelling.
3. Avoid activities that can irritate braces
Apart from plaque, irritation from braces can sometimes cause the pain to appear. Now to deal with sore and swollen gums due to stirrups, avoid chewing food that is too hard, biting nails or pen caps. Reduce tobacco consumption because it treats swollen gums.
4. Reduce sugar consumption
The use of stirrups must also be accompanied by a balanced diet. Why? One of the causes of swollen gums is the buildup of dental plaque due to consuming too much sugar-containing foods, such as popcorn, gum, and foods that stick easily to the teeth. Therefore, reduce sugar consumption to treat swollen gums.
In essence, maintaining dental hygiene is very important for both braces wearers or not. Apart from using stirrups, the buildup of dental plaque also causes the gums to swell. Therefore, remember to clean your teeth at least twice a day to treat swollen gums.
However, if the swelling of the gums still doesn't change despite trying the tips above, immediately consult your dentist or orthodontist for advice on what prevention and treatment can be done to treat swollen gums.