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Dr. Andrew Rynne
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Dr. Andrew Rynne

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What Could Be Causing My Gums To Swell And Grow Over My Braces After 4 Years Despite Using A Waterpik?

hi I am 18 years old I had my braces on for about 4 years now since 2020 during covid , within a few months of getting my braces I noticed my gums was swelling up on my bottom row teeth now my whole bottom row teeth and also my upper it seems like my gums is growing over my braces . When ever I went to my orthodontist they didn’t say anything about it except to brush twice a day . I always use a waterpik as well . What can be the cause of this ??
posted on Fri, 7 Jul 2023
Twitter Fri, 4 Jul 2025 Answered on
Twitter Sun, 3 Aug 2025 Last reviewed on
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Dentist,  's  Response
Hi,

Orthodontic treatment does lead to gum and periodontal problems. Having braces for 4 years is a very long time. It would be advisable if you could get a proper scaling treatment done to remove all the debris accumulated between your gums and teeth which might be the cause of your gum swelling or overgrowth as mentioned by you. Also, proper brushing method is recommended.

Use your toothbrush in an upward and downward direction rather than using it side to side direction. This might help to clear debris efficiently. You can also use antimicrobial mouthwash with chlorhexidine 0.1% twice a day. Vitamin C tablets 500 mg once for 15 days. Can be taken for swollen gums.

Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Regards,
Dr. Sakshi Ahuja, Dentist
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What Could Be Causing My Gums To Swell And Grow Over My Braces After 4 Years Despite Using A Waterpik?

Hi, Orthodontic treatment does lead to gum and periodontal problems. Having braces for 4 years is a very long time. It would be advisable if you could get a proper scaling treatment done to remove all the debris accumulated between your gums and teeth which might be the cause of your gum swelling or overgrowth as mentioned by you. Also, proper brushing method is recommended. Use your toothbrush in an upward and downward direction rather than using it side to side direction. This might help to clear debris efficiently. You can also use antimicrobial mouthwash with chlorhexidine 0.1% twice a day. Vitamin C tablets 500 mg once for 15 days. Can be taken for swollen gums. Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further. Regards, Dr. Sakshi Ahuja, Dentist