Problems & Solutions

You may be able to solve many problems at home before you schedule a repair appointment with our office.

If a bracket/ band is loose, what should I do?

If the bracket/ band is still attached to the wire, leave it in place. If uncomfortable, place wax on it.

What if my arch wire comes out of a bracket?

Try to put the wire back in place with tweezers. If impossible, clip the wire with fingernail clippers behind the last tooth to which it is securely fastened.

My wire is sticking in, what can I do?

If you have a poking wire you can try to push it down with a spoon or eraser. If not possible, place some wax on it.

My cheeks are irritated. Is there something I can put on them?

If the braces are irritating your lips and cheeks, comfort wax is available and can provide relief. After the wax is squeezed into a small ball, push it onto the brace where the irritation is occurring.

My teeth hurt after the braces have been adjusted

Occasionally, patients experience discomfort for several days after the braces have been adjusted. This tends to make eating more difficult. A soft diet and use of a non-prescription pain relievers such as Advil or Tylenol are recommended.

My gums sometimes bleed. Is this normal?

If you notice any bleeding when brushing or flossing, that usually means there is a local area of irritation due to plaque building up. Continue to keep the area clean by brushing and flossing.