You’ve finally made it to the end of your orthodontic treatment, and your braces have been removed! It’s a momentous occasion that you’ve been looking forward to for months (or even years). But now that your braces are gone, you may be noticing that your teeth are feeling a bit more sensitive than usual. What gives?
In this article, you’ll know why you can develop sensitivity after the braces are off and how to get rid of it.
Is it normal to have sensitive teeth after braces removal?
It’s not unusual to have sensitive teeth after braces removal. In most cases, teeth sensitivity after braces is nothing to worry about and will go away on its own. There are several factors that could apply to this occurrence, but fortunately, there are certain things you can do to lessen the discomfort.
But, if the sensitivity does not go away within a few days or if it becomes severe, please give us a call so we can help you figure out the best solution.
Why are my teeth sensitive after getting my braces off?
One of the most common questions we get from patients is why their teeth are suddenly sensitive after they get their braces off.
The most common cause of tooth sensitivity after braces are off is that your entire tooth is exposed to the external environment again after being covered by braces for a long time.
The bracket covers some portion of your tooth. So, when braces are taken off after 18 to 24 months, that portion of the tooth is exposed and your tooth feels slightly sensitive.
Another fact is that when your teeth were a little misaligned before you got braces, and now that they’re in their rightful position, they may be a little tender.
This is because the process of wearing braces puts pressure on the teeth and your teeth want to go back to their previous position. So, when braces are removed, teeth adjust to their final position.
This puts pressure on your teeth similar to what you feel when braces are tightened at the beginning of treatment.
Moreover, it can take some time for your gums to adjust to the new pressure and position of your teeth.
Another potential cause is your enamel may have been worn down because of poor oral hygiene during braces treatment, which can make your teeth more sensitive to hot, cold, or sweet foods. However, this can be addressed with a simple fluoride treatment.
Additionally, the process of getting braces put on and removed can cause some temporary gum inflammation, which can also lead to increased sensitivity.
In some cases, patients may also develop gum recession after their braces are removed. This can leave the roots of the teeth exposed, which can increase sensitivity. However, if you have maintained oral hygiene properly, that shouldn’t be a cause.
How long does teeth sensitivity last after braces?
Some people may experience sensitivity to cold or hot temperatures for a week or a few after their braces are removed. However, this is usually only temporary and will resolve itself over time. If the sensitivity does not go away, or if it becomes worse, you should see your dentist or orthodontist for an evaluation.
Why do your teeth sensitive to cold after braces are removed?
It is not uncommon for teeth to be sensitive to cold after braces are removed. This is because the enamel that covers the teeth has been damaged during the orthodontic treatment. The sensitivity will usually go away within a few weeks. Another common cause is that the enamel has been worn down during the orthodontic treatment because of bad oral hygiene.
There are a few things you can do to help ease this sensitivity, such as using toothpaste for sensitive teeth or avoiding foods and drinks that are very cold or hot. If the sensitivity is severe, you may need to see your dentist for further treatment.
Why do your teeth sensitive to hot after braces are removed?
There are several reasons why your teeth might be sensitive to hot after braces are removed. One reason could be that the brackets and wires used in braces can leave small scratches on your teeth. These scratches can make your teeth more sensitive to temperature changes. Another reason could be that during the braces treatment, you develop tooth decay due to poor oral hygiene. The decay can make your teeth more sensitive to hot or cold temperatures.
How can I fix sensitive teeth after braces?
One common problem after braces treatment is sensitive teeth. However, the good news is that there are several things you can do to help alleviate the discomfort.
1. Use a desensitizing toothpaste.
First, try using a desensitizing toothpaste for your sensitive teeth which can help to reduce sensitivity by filling in microscopic pores in the enamel. These formulas often contain ingredients like potassium nitrate or fluoride, which can help to reduce sensitivity.
2. Rinse with salt water.
Dissolve one teaspoon of salt in eight ounces of warm water, then swish it around your mouth. Take about 30 seconds to rinse nicely. This will help to reduce inflammation and pain.
3. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush.
Avoid brushing too hard or using a toothbrush with firm bristles, as this can irritate the gums. Try using a soft-bristled toothbrush and being gentle when brushing your teeth, as this will help to avoid further irritation.
4. Use a fluoride mouth rinse.
You can also try using a fluoride mouth rinse to help reduce sensitivity. If your gums are particularly sore, you can ask your orthodontist about applying a desensitizing gel.
5. Avoid too hot or cold foods and beverages.
In addition, avoid eating or drinking very hot or cold foods and beverages. These can aggravate sensitive teeth.
6. Be sure to brush and floss regularly.
Make sure that you brush and floss regularly to maintain good oral hygiene and help reduce sensitivity.
7. See a dentist.
Finally, If these measures don’t help, or if the sensitivity is severe, make an appointment with your dentist to see if there is any other underlying issue. They may recommend a more aggressive treatment, such as bonding or veneers.
With proper care, your teeth should eventually adjust to their new normal and the sensitivity will go away. In the meantime, take steps to protect your teeth and reduce discomfort.
Why are my gums sensitive after getting my braces off?
It’s not uncommon to experience some gum sensitivity after getting your braces removed. This is because some gums have been pushed back by the braces and are now exposed to more pressure and stimulation. The good news is that this sensitivity is usually temporary and will go away on its own within a few weeks.
However, gum sensitivity can also occur if your teeth accumulate more plaque and calculus during the orthodontic treatment because of bad oral hygiene. In that case, you will need a professional dental cleaning or more advanced treatment.
Takeaways
After getting your braces taken off, if you notice that your teeth are more sensitive than before, you’re not alone.
There are a few things that could be causing your teeth to feel sensitive after braces.
It is likely due to the fact that your teeth were protected from the elements while they were covered by braces. Once the braces are removed, your teeth are no longer shielded from the temperature changes and they may become more sensitive as a result.
It’s possible that your tooth enamel was damaged during the braces treatment due to poor oral hygiene. If this is the case, your dentist can help you treat the sensitivity.
It’s also possible that your teeth are simply adjusting to being without braces and will eventually return to normal. If the sensitivity persists, however, you should see your dentist to rule out any other potential causes.
Pallab Kishore is a certified dentist and the owner of Orthodontic Braces Care.
He completed BDS in 2014. Now, he is an MS resident in Orthodontics, BSMMU. He likes content writing and has 12+ years of experience in blogging.