Reviewed by Dr. Amir Davoody, board-certified orthodontist (ABO Diplomate).
Canker sores are small, flat white ulcers that can appear inside your mouth and last a week or more. They are not serious, but they are not comfortable either. The good news is that once you understand what triggers them, they are often easy to prevent, even during orthodontic treatment.
Do braces cause canker sores?
There is no evidence that braces directly cause canker sores. People who get them during treatment are usually prone to them already. That said, braces are a new set of brackets and wires your mouth has to adjust to, and that adjustment can irritate the soft tissue and leave it more vulnerable to small lesions, especially in the first weeks.
What causes canker sores?
The exact cause is unknown, but common triggers include stress, minor injury to the tissue inside the mouth, acidic foods, and being run down by illness. Stress can weaken your immune system, and cuts or scrapes (from a sharp bracket or hard food) create openings where sores can form. Acidic foods like lemons, pineapple, and tomatoes can also trigger them.
How to prevent canker sores
Preventing them often comes down to avoiding triggers:
- Use orthodontic wax to cover any bracket or wire that is rubbing.
- Limit acidic foods if you are prone to sores.
- Manage stress and keep up good oral hygiene.
- Consider a toothpaste without sodium lauryl sulfate, which helps some people.
How to get relief
To ease the discomfort, rinse with warm saltwater, stay hydrated, get rest, and stick to soft, cool foods. An over-the-counter pain reliever can help. If sores keep coming back, ask us about antibacterial rinses or gels that may provide relief.
Frequently asked questions
Will I get more canker sores because of braces? You may notice more early on as your mouth adjusts, but braces are not the underlying cause.
How long do canker sores last? Usually about a week. Avoiding triggers reduces how often they appear.
When should I call the office? If sores are severe, frequent, or not healing, let us know so we can help.
We can help you stay comfortable
If canker sores are making treatment uncomfortable, contact our office and Dr. Amir Davoody can suggest options for relief.
Davoody & Hablinski Orthodontics
5311 Kirby Dr Ste 209, Houston, TX 77005
Phone: (713) 521-2727