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Question:
Braces - Sores: I have had braces for over 2 years and have wires and brackets that rub against the inside of my cheek, causing open sores. I do not like using wax, so I have been using things like oragel and taking ibuprofen.
It's been a few weeks since my last visit to the orthodontist and now my cheek is quite swollen. Two of the sores are kind of yellow. When I'm eating I have a stinging in my cheek. Afterwards it appears that the yellow color is gone but then about an hour or so later it returns.
I called my orthodontist and he doesn't have a license to prescibe antibiotics. Can you tell me what I should do? ...Visitor from TX
Answer:
Braces that are irritating is not a new phenomenon. However, the concept of not protecting your cheeks from this irritation is not rather unusual....and not terribly wise. The fact that you are not fond of the wax suggests to me that you may not have the RIGHT wax.
Waxes come in many forms. Lately, companies have been introducing "silicone" wax. These waxes "look" nicer, but do not stick to your braces. What you need is a wax that does stick. Go to your local Drug store and get a wax that has no silicone. You will likely find it more acceptable.
The yellow you are describing that comes and goes (so to speak) sounds like purulence. Purulence is puss, which indicates the presence of infection. The purulence and swelling are cardinal signs of infection.
Antibiotics may or may not be appropriate, and wax is absolutely critical. The idea that your orthodontist simply indicates that he/she does not have a license for antibiotics is disappointing. Orthodontists are health-care providers....not just "tooth-movers."
Call your dentist and explain that your orthodontist does not have a Drug Enforcement Agency Number. Your dentist should be able to prescribe an appropriate antibiotic for you if your infection is not resolving.
Editorial Staff
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