What does it mean to be a Top 1% Diamond Plus Invisalign Provider?

Only practices that treat nearly 1000 patients annually with Invisalign are qualified to be a Top 1% Diamond Plus Invisalign provider. This distinction is important because it means we have more experience working with Invisalign than 99% of all other practitioners. You know you’re getting Invisalign treatment from orthodontists who have vast experience correcting bites and smiles with Invisalign. You’ll have confidence that we will design the perfect treatment for you AND that your results will be in line with your expectations of us.

Isn’t Invisalign expensive?

Cost is one area where MKY Orthodontics shines. Many providers upcharge for providing treatment with Invisalign, but we choose to offer this revolutionary solution to patients of all ages for the same cost as traditional braces. It is important to us that our patients have options and that their orthodontic journey fits in with the rythm of their family's lifestyle. Cost shouldn't stand in the way of a great smile. To learn more about our flexible financing for Invisalign at both our Mount Holly and Moorestown locations, visit our fiancing page here.

Can Invisalign work for my orthodontic needs?

Many people have been told by other providers that they aren’t a candidate for Invisalign. Because of our extensive experience treating thousands of patients and all sorts of cases with Invisalign, we’ll likely be able to find an Invisalign solution for you.

Will my teen or child actually wear their Invisalign clear aligners?

Maybe it seems like they wouldn’t, but in our experience treating hundreds of teens and children with Invisalign, we’ve found our young patients are often more compliant with their Invisalign protocol than their adult counterparts.

Does Invisalign treatment take longer than treatment with traditional braces?

For our patients who wear their Invisalign trays 20 to 22 hours per day as prescribed, their total treatment time is about as long as with traditional braces, and sometimes even faster.

What if my child starts treatment with Invisalign but wants to switch to traditional braces?

The majority of our young patients wear their aligners consistently and have fantastic outcomes. For the few kids or teens who have a little trouble wearing their aligners as directed, we give them a chance to switch to traditional braces at no additional cost during the first six months of treatment.

Do Invisalign clear aligners contain BPA?

The current research and testing by Align Technology, the creators of Invisalign, has found no latex, parabens, phthalates, glutaraldehyde, epoxy or Bisphenol A (BPA) present in Invisalign aligners or retainers. In addition, Invisalign aligners are approved by the FDA as Class II medical devices.

Will wearing Invisalign aligners affect my speech?

In the first couple of days after getting your aligners, while your tongue gets used to having them in your mouth, you may talk with a slight lisp. Don’t worry. This will go away very fast.

Can I chew gum while wearing my Invisalign aligners?

No, unfortunately. Gum sticks to the aligners. We recommend you remove the aligners before you have any meals or snacks, including chewing gum. If you think you might forget to put your aligners back in after chewing gum, you may choose to skip gum altogether during treatment.

How do I take care of my Invisalign aligners?

You should brush and rinse your aligners each time you brush your teeth. It’s critical that you brush your teeth before putting your aligners back in your mouth so that food particles don’t get trapped in your teeth, potentially causing tooth decay or other hygiene issues. Additionally, some foods may stain the aligners if not cleared from your teeth before you reinsert the aligners. Let’s keep those aligners clear!

I went on vacation and forgot to pack my aligners. Will they still fit when I get home?

It really depends on how long you go without wearing the aligners. If your trip lasted only a few days, your aligners should still fit but could possibly feel slightly uncomfortable. If you’ve been away longer, give us a call and we can talk about your unique situation and the next best steps to get you back on track as quickly as possible.

What orthodontic problems do braces correct?

Braces effectively resolve all kinds of issues, which is why they are one of our most popular treatment options. Below are a few common concerns we treat with braces: • Overcrowded or ill-spaced teeth. • Misaligned jaw. • Overbites and underbites. • Open bites. • Asymmetry of the smile. • Improper contact of the chewing surfaces of the teeth. • Issues with chewing and speech. • Reduced self-esteem due to a misaligned smile.

How long do I have to wear my braces?

Dr. Kaye and Dr. Yucha will determine the right duration of treatment for your specific situation because each person’s mouth responds differently to treatment. Depending on the type of correction, treatment with braces can take anywhere from six to 30 months. A standard treatment for braces in either our Mount Holly or Moorestown location typically takes about 22 months.

We won’t sugarcoat it: When you first get braces, you’ll feel mildly uncomfortable for a couple of days as your teeth, gums, cheeks, tongue, and mouth get used to the brackets and wires. You might live on soups, oatmeal, and applesauce for a few days. This is totally normal and won’t last too long, we promise. When you feel a pang, just picture how great it’s going to be when your treatment wraps up and you have a dazzling smile to show for it. When Dr. Kaye or Dr. Yucha periodically adjust the wires to guide your teeth, you’ll probably feel sore again for a few days. Soon you’ll be a pro at managing the short-lived discomfort, and most of the time, you’ll feel just fine.

How do I take care of my teeth while wearing braces?

Following the best practices below will ensure your treatment is as fast and effective as possible: • Brush your teeth after every meal and snack and floss at least once a day. Traditional floss can be difficult to use with braces, so check your local store for flossers designed to be used with braces. You’ll be happy you did. • To help prevent tooth decay and cavities, use toothpaste that contains fluoride or hydroxyapatite. Check with us or your family dentist to see if you’d benefit from a fluoride rinse. • During your treatment, avoid foods with a lot of sugar, like sweets or soda. Sugar fuels bad bacteria growth in your mouth, causing more plaque and possibly cavities. • Some foods can stick to or get caught in braces. Here are a few to avoid: sticky and chewy foods (caramel, chewing gum, gummy candy, taffy), hard foods (hard candy, nuts, ice cubes), or other foods that could possibly get stuck in your braces (corn on the cob, bagels, ribs, etc.). It won’t be long until you can go back to eating all the foods you love. • Schedule routine checkups with your family dentist every six months.

How should I take care of my retainer?

• Keep your retainer’s case with you all the time so that when you take out your retainer to eat, you can store it safely in its container. If it’s not in your mouth, it should be in the case so it doesn’t get lost or broken. Floss and brush your teeth and retainer before putting your retainer back in your mouth. • Keeping your retainer clean is an important part of good oral health. When you brush your teeth, gently brush your retainer with dish soap. You can also soak it in retainer brite as instructed by our orthodontists. Don’t put your retainer in boiling water or in the dishwasher, or else you’ll be coming in for a replacement.

How often should I brush my teeth when I have braces?

Braces can trap food easily, so you should brush your teeth at least three times a day to remove any bits of food caught between the braces or in your teeth. Flossing daily is critical to clean all the nooks and crannies where your brush can’t reach. The orthodontist will show you how to properly brush and floss once your braces are placed. A thorough brushing and flossing routine is the best way to prevent tooth decay, bad breath, and gum disease. When your oral hygiene is up to snuff, your smile will shine and your teeth, gums, and mouth will stay healthy.

Do I still need to get regular dental checkups while wearing braces?

Do you ever! In fact, it's even more important that orthodontic patients visit their dentist regularly because braces make brushing and flossing trickier. Bits of food caught where your toothbrush can't reach cause bacteria to build up, leading to cavities, gingivitis, and gum disease. Your dentist and orthodontist work together to help you keep your teeth clean and healthy while wearing braces.

Does wearing braces interfere with activities such as sports or playing an instrument?

Some people worry they’ll have to give up their favorite activities after they get their braces on. Rest assured, wearing braces won’t prevent you from participating in any of the activities you love. Because the position of the mouth and tongue affects how you play certain instruments, you may take a little time to adjust to playing with your braces on. Soon you’ll play as well as you did before. Braces won’t get in the way of playing sports, but we strongly recommend that you wear a mouthguard while playing contact sports to protect your mouth, braces, or any other appliance.

My teeth feel slightly loose. Is that a problem?

Not to worry—this sensation is completely normal and is expected. In order to change the alignment of your teeth in your mouth, your braces must first loosen your teeth before they can move them into the right position. Once your teeth have been repositioned, the surrounding tissue will retighten and will feel the way it usually does.

What orthodontic issues in children can orthodontists treat?

Orthodontic care straightens teeth, but planning for straight teeth is only the tip of the iceberg when assessing a child’s orthodontic health. Early interceptive treatment addresses alignment of the jaw, facial irregularities, and breathing pathways. Having an aligned jaw with straight teeth that fit together properly makes it much easier for your child to talk and eat. Corrected teeth are much easier to keep clean and develop much less wear and tear. A beautiful smile boosts children’s confidence and increases their self-esteem.

How does my child’s growth affect their orthodontic treatment?

Children’s rapid growth is the foundation of early interceptive treatment. Our doctors can take advantage of the fact that children’s jaws and teeth are already deep in the process of development: guide now rather than modify later. Orthodontic treatment is a great idea at any age, but starting care in childhood means children’s natural growth patterns support and speed up their treatment.

How often will I need to bring my child in for their appointments?

The precise number of appointments your child needs will depend on their custom treatment plan and the way their mouth responds to treatment. We typically schedule orthodontic appointments for children from once a month to once every three months. The number and frequency of appointments your child will need may also change throughout the treatment. At each appointment, Dr. Kaye or Dr. Yucha will check your child’s appliances and assess their treatment progress. Your child may also get their braces cleaned, have their teeth flossed, and get replacement wires or elastics. We always leave time for you and your child to ask questions and express concerns. We want to make sure the treatment is working for your family and that you have a clear understanding of your child’s plan and progress

Can my child continue playing their instrument or their favorite sports?

Without a doubt. Your child can absolutely play sports or an instrument even while they have braces. If a child plays an instrument with their mouth (like a trumpet or clarinet), they may take a few days to get used to playing while wearing their braces or Invisalign clear aligners. They’ll soon get the hang of it and won’t notice much of a difference. We recommend children wear mouthguards when playing sports to protect their appliances and their teeth from injuries. If your child does get a mouth injury while they have braces, call our office right away. We’ll help you make sure there’s no damage that will delay your child’s treatment.

What foods should my child avoid while getting orthodontic treatment?

Right after your child gets braces or after routine adjustments, their mouth will feel sensitive and they’ll probably want to eat soft foods for a few days. Be a hero and throw in some soft-serve ice cream with dinner. After a short while, your child can resume eating normally with a few exceptions. Have your child pass on popcorn and crunchy snacks like pretzels, chips, nuts, and crunchy veggies. They shouldn’t eat chewy and gummy candy, chewing gum, hard candy, or ice. These types of foods can get stuck in braces, damage the brackets or archwires, or pull a bracket off the tooth.

How does orthodontic treatment affect my child’s oral hygiene routine?

Food can easily get stuck in braces, so regular and thorough brushing is very important. Your child should brush their teeth at least three times a day, including before bed and after every meal. They should also floss at least once a day to clear food particles from hard-to-reach spots where a toothbrush can’t reach, which will prevent excessive tooth decay and maintain healthy gums. Flossing, which is already tricky for kids, is even more challenging with braces, so as a parent you’ll need to spend some time with them guiding the process and making sure they can floss well. A water flosser or orthodontic flossers designed especially for use with braces can make the whole process easier. Orthodontic appointments don’t replace routine dental cleanings. During orthodontic treatment, it’s essential you take your child to the dentist twice a year for a checkup and thorough cleaning.

I had straight teeth when I was younger and now I don’t. What happened?

Your jaw and mouth naturally change shape as you age. When your body gets older, your jawbone loses density, which can make your teeth shift. You might have thought there was nothing to be done, but now you can see you have many options to correct your smile.

Is there an age limit for getting orthodontic care?

Absolutely not! Teeth position can be adjusted at any age—even adults in their 60s and 70s have successful orthodontic treatment. We often meet patients who think they’ve missed their chance to have a great smile, and we’re here to tell you that’s not the case. You matter. Give this gift to yourself.

How is adult orthodontics different from orthodontics for children and teens?

The main difference is that adults’ jaws are fully grown. Adult treatment may take slightly longer than treatment for kids or teens with a similar problem because adults’ bones are mature and have a different density. It’s very common for orthodontists to coordinate with an adult’s dentist to reach their best outcome. Adults often choose Invisalign clear aligners to enhance their smiles since they feel less self-conscious with this nearly invisible treatment. We treat hundreds of adult patients every year with Invisalign, so we have the expertise to make your dream smile come true.

What are some common orthodontic problems for adults?

Overcrowding: Teeth overlap because the size and number of teeth exceed the capacity of the underlying bone structure. Overbite: The upper front teeth significantly overlap the bottom front teeth when the jaw is closed. Underbite: The lower jaw sits farther out than the upper jaw. Protruding teeth: Teeth stick out farther than looks natural and seamless. Open bite: The jaws are misaligned such that the upper and lower teeth don’t touch. Jaw pain: Pain caused by a bad bite, teeth grinding, stress, or mouth trauma. Abnormal tooth decay or wear and tear: All teeth wear naturally as we age, but poorly aligned teeth wear unevenly and more quickly than teeth that are straight. Gum disease: A chronic infection of the gums because of plaque buildup.

Should adults getting orthodontic treatment use a manual or electric toothbrush?

The best toothbrush is the one you happily use every day. When you have orthodontic appliances, it’s important you brush after every meal and snack so no food gets caught in your appliance. Be sure to change the toothbrush or brush head at the first sign of wear or at least every three months.

My teeth on top are pretty straight. Can I get braces or Invisalign for just my bottom teeth?

Orthodontic treatment is designed to ensure that all the teeth in your mouth work together well so they wear better over your lifetime. Teeth, like gears on a bicycle, must dovetail seamlessly to avoid excessive wear. That means an optimal orthodontic outcome most often requires treatment of both the top and bottom teeth, however we evaluate each case individually and sometimes just lower treatment can be performed.

I’m pregnant and want to get orthodontic treatment. Is that ok?

First of all, congratulations! Pregnancy brings on many changes in the body, of which some can affect the mouth. Soft tissues like gums can be more susceptible to infection. We will discuss how these risk factors can affect your orthodontic treatment and when the appropriate time to begin treatment is at your initial consultation.

November 21, 2025

Wearing braces is an exciting step toward a straighter, more confident smile, but it's no secret that the early days, or even midway through treatment, can come with some unexpected challenges. One of the most common complaints we hear from patients embarking on their orthodontic journey is dealing with swollen gums. If you've ever felt that tender, puffy sensation around your brackets, you're not alone. Preventing gum swelling with braces isn't just about comfort; it's essential for keeping your treatment on track and avoiding setbacks like prolonged inflammation or even minor infections.

Gum swelling, medically known as gingival inflammation, often stems from the adjustment period when wires and brackets irritate soft tissues, combined with plaque buildup in those hard-to-reach spots. According to dental health experts, up to 70% of braces wearers experience some degree of gum tenderness in the first few months. But here's the good news: with a few smart, consistent habits, you can minimize this issue and focus on the positives—like watching your smile transform week by week.

In this blog, we'll dive deep into why swollen gums with braces happen and share five expert tips for preventing gum swelling with braces. These strategies are drawn from years of orthodontic best practices, emphasizing gentle care, proactive habits, and a touch of patience. Whether you're a teen navigating high school with new metal or adults squeezing in aligner tweaks around a busy schedule, these gum care tips for braces wearers will help you stay comfortable and confident. Let's get started on creating that lasting comfort you deserve.

Why Understanding Swollen Gums with Braces Is Key to Prevention

Before jumping into the tips, it's worth unpacking what causes gum swelling in the first place. When you get braces, your mouth is suddenly home to a network of tiny metal (or ceramic) pieces designed to gently shift your teeth. This setup is brilliant for alignment, but it can trap food particles and make thorough cleaning trickier than ever. Bacteria thrive in these nooks, leading to plaque accumulation that irritates your gums.

The result? Redness, puffiness, and that unmistakable soreness, classic signs of gingivitis, a mild form of gum disease. Factors like hormonal changes (hello, teens and expectant parents), stress, or even certain medications can amplify this. How to reduce gum swelling with braces starts with recognizing these triggers early. Left unchecked, it could delay your progress or require extra visits to the orthodontist.

But knowledge is power. Studies from oral health organizations highlight that proactive oral hygiene can cut inflammation risks by over 50%. By prioritizing prevention, you're not just soothing symptoms; you're safeguarding your long-term dental health. Think of it as investing in a smoother path to those straight teeth you've been dreaming about. Now, let's explore our top five tips to keep things calm and collected.

Tip 1: Master a Tailored Oral Hygiene Routine for Braces Wearers

The cornerstone of preventing gum swelling with braces? An impeccable daily clean that's as effective as it is gentle. Brushing alone won't cut it—plaque loves to hide under wires and around brackets, so a multi-step approach is your best friend.

Start with the basics: Brush at least twice a day for two full minutes using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Angle the brush at 45 degrees to your gumline, using short, circular motions to sweep away debris without aggravating sensitive areas. Electric toothbrushes with orthodontic heads can be game-changers here, vibrating away buildup that manual brushes might miss.

Flossing is non-negotiable, but with braces, it's all about technique. Traditional string floss can be a tangle-fest, so opt for orthodontic floss threaders or water flossers (like Waterpik devices). These tools glide under wires effortlessly, dislodging food particles that could spark inflammation. Aim to floss once daily, ideally before bed, to give your gums a fresh start overnight.

Don't forget interdental brushes or proxies, they're slim tools perfect for cleaning between teeth and around brackets. For an extra layer of protection against braces gum inflammation prevention, incorporate an antimicrobial mouthwash. Look for one with chlorhexidine or essential oils; swish for 30 seconds after brushing to kill bacteria on contact.

Pro tip: Set a timer on your phone or pair your routine with your favorite playlist to make it a habit you actually enjoy. Patients who stick to this regimen report far less soreness and faster adaptation to their braces. In fact, consistent hygiene can reduce gum bleeding by up to 40% within weeks. Your gums will thank you with a healthier, happier glow.

Tip 2: Smart Food Choices to Minimize Irritation and Support Gum Health

What you eat plays a starring role in how to reduce gum swelling with braces. Certain foods are notorious for getting lodged in your hardware, fueling bacterial growth and puffiness. The fix? A braces-friendly diet that's nourishing and low-drama.

First, steer clear of sticky culprits like caramel, gum, or chewy candies; they cling like glue, inviting trouble. Hard crunchers such as nuts, popcorn kernels, or crusty bagels can poke and prod your gums, worsening inflammation. Instead, reach for soft, nutrient-packed options: yogurt, smoothies, mashed potatoes, or scrambled eggs. These are easy on your mouth while delivering vitamins that bolster gum resilience.

For braces wearers craving crunch, try carrot sticks softened in a steamer or apple slices cut into thin wedges. Chew on the opposite side of any sore spots to give tender areas a break. Meal prepping can make this seamless, think overnight oats with berries for breakfast or veggie-packed soups for lunch.

By tweaking your plate this way, you're not dieting; you're fueling your smile's success. Orthodontic gum health tips like these ensure your treatment stays on course without unnecessary pit stops for discomfort.

Tip 3: Harness the Soothing Power of Salt Water Rinses

When it comes to quick relief and long-term prevention, few remedies are as simple and effective as a warm salt water rinse. This age-old trick is a staple in gum care tips for braces wearers, backed by its natural antibacterial properties.

Here's how to do it right: Dissolve half a teaspoon of table salt in eight ounces of warm (not hot) water. Swish gently for 30-60 seconds, two to three times a day—especially after meals. The salt draws out excess fluid from swollen tissues, reducing puffiness, while creating an environment that's hostile to bacteria.

Why does it work so well for swollen gums with braces? Salt acts as a mild antiseptic, flushing out irritants trapped by your appliances. It's also budget-friendly and free of harsh chemicals, making it ideal for sensitive mouths. Many orthodontists recommend it as a first-line defense during adjustment phases.

This tip shines in its accessibility; no fancy tools required. Pair it with mindfulness: Use rinse time to breathe deeply and relax, turning a chore into a mini self-care ritual. Preventing gum swelling with braces becomes effortless when you lean on nature's helpers like this.

Tip 4: Use Orthodontic Wax and Targeted Soothers for Instant Comfort

Irritation from poking wires or rough edges? Enter orthodontic wax, a must-have for braces gum inflammation prevention. This soft, moldable beeswax creates a smooth barrier between your hardware and gums, halting friction in its tracks.

Apply it like this: Warm a small piece between your fingers until pliable, then press it over the offending bracket or wire. It stays put during eating and talking, dissolving harmlessly over time. Stock up on flavored varieties (mint or berry) to keep things fun.

For chronic tenderness, silicone spacers or cheek protectors can prevent rubbing from the inside out. These gum care tips for braces wearers extend to nighttime routines: A humidifier in your room keeps air moist, reducing dry-mouth-induced irritation.

The beauty of these tools? They're proactive, not reactive. By addressing micro-irritations early, you sidestep bigger swelling episodes. Think of wax as your mouth's personal shield—small investment, big payoff in daily ease.

Tip 5: Prioritize Regular Check-Ups and Professional Guidance

No tip list would be complete without emphasizing the power of professional oversight. Regular visits to your orthodontist are the ultimate safeguard in preventing gum swelling with braces. These appointments aren't just tune-ups; they're opportunities for early detection and customized advice.

Schedule check-ins every four to six weeks, or sooner if swelling persists. Your provider can adjust wires for a better fit, polish brackets to remove buildup, and apply fluoride treatments that strengthen enamel and gums alike. They might even recommend custom tools, like powered flossers, based on your unique setup.

During visits, voice any concerns; swollen gums with braces can signal alignment tweaks or hygiene hurdles worth addressing. Pros often share insider orthodontic gum health tips, like the latest in probiotic lozenges for bacterial balance.

Beyond routine care, build a partnership with your team. Apps for tracking progress or virtual check-in options keep you connected without added stress. Remember, experts see hundreds of cases yearly; their insights can prevent minor issues from snowballing.

Investing time here pays dividends in comfort and efficiency. A well-monitored journey means fewer surprises and more milestones celebrated.

Wrapping It Up: Your Path to a Swelling-Free Smile

There you have it, five actionable, expert-backed strategies to conquer swollen gums and embrace your braces with open arms. From revamping your brush-and-floss game to embracing salt rinses and smart snacking, preventing gum swelling with braces is about consistent, compassionate care. These habits not only ease discomfort but empower you to own your orthodontic adventure, emerging with a smile that's as healthy as it is stunning.

As you implement these gum care tips for braces wearers, remember that every mouth is unique, and a little guidance goes a long way. That's where the team at Morrone, Kaye, and Yucha Orthodontics shines. Led by board-certified orthodontists Dr. Richard Kaye and Dr. Benjamin Yucha, proud Top 1% Diamond Plus Invisalign Providers with decades of experience transforming smiles across New Jersey, their practice blends cutting-edge technology with heartfelt, family-first care. Whether you're exploring traditional braces, clear aligners, or hybrid options, their expertise in personalized treatments ensures minimal disruptions, including tailored plans to sidestep common issues like gum inflammation. Patients rave about their transparent communication, modern tools like digital scanners for precise fittings, and a warm environment designed for busy families in Moorestown and Mount Holly.

Ready to elevate your comfort and accelerate your results? We invite you to schedule a complimentary smile assessment today at Morrone, Kaye, and Yucha Orthodontics. Call (856) 234-4044 or book online. Your journey to effortless, inflammation-free progress starts with one confident step. Let's craft the radiant, resilient smile you've always envisioned, together.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How long does gum swelling typically last with new braces?

Most patients notice peak swelling in the first 1-2 weeks as gums adjust, fading within a month with proper care. If it persists beyond that, consult your orthodontist to rule out other factors.

2. Can I use over-the-counter pain relievers for swollen gums with braces?

Yes, ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help reduce inflammation and discomfort. Follow dosage guidelines and check with your provider, especially if you have health conditions.

3. Are there specific mouthwashes best for preventing gum swelling with braces?

Antiseptic options like those with chlorhexidine or fluoride are ideal. Avoid alcohol-based ones, as they can dry out tissues and worsen irritation.

4. Does Invisalign cause less gum swelling than traditional braces?

Often, yes, removable aligners make cleaning easier, reducing plaque risks. However, hygiene remains key regardless of your system.

5. What if home tips aren't reducing my gum swelling?

It could indicate an adjustment need or an underlying issue. Promptly reach out to your orthodontist for a check-up to keep treatment smooth.

6. How can diet impact orthodontic gum health tips during braces?

Nutrient-rich, soft foods support healing, while avoiding sugars and stickies prevents bacterial overgrowth. Balance is your ally for lasting comfort.

Preventing Gum Swelling with Braces: 5 Expert Tips for Lasting Comfort