- Children are starting orthodontic care at a young age; many orthodontists are using palate expanders are made to conform to the tissue of the mouth at the beginning of the process. As it is expanded, edges may become exposed that need to be smoothed or rounded. Mouth sores will develop quickly when edges become rough. Talk with your orthodontist about the best method to prevent and reduce the rough edges. This will prevent or reduce mouth sores.
- All appliances should have every edge checked for roughness, and be double-checked for exposed wires to make sure that no wires are sticking out at the time of adjustment that might damage the gums.
- Expanders are a good place for bacteria and thrush to live, so they need good cleaning at least twice a day.
- Appointments should be scheduled in the first few days of the week, avoiding Friday or pre-holiday appointments, so that if a problem occurs after the appointment you will be able to see the orthodontist the next day to repair or smooth the appliance. If you have to wait over a weekend or holiday with mouth sores because of a rough wire, the orthodontic experience will be more uncomfortable.