Wearing braces on your teeth can transform your smile into what you’ve always wanted. To achieve beautiful results, you may have to experience a little discomfort and a few hiccups along the way. Here are some common problems with braces, and suggestions for handling them.
Loose bracket
If a bracket becomes loose, remove it to take with you to the orthodontist’s office. If it’s not easily removed, leave it on your tooth if it is not causing irritation. Make an appointment to have the bracket glued back in place as soon as possible.
Poking wire
There are several things you can try if a wire is poking your cheek or gums. Place a ball of wax on the wire, or cut the piece of wire that is sticking out with a nail clipper. Another option is to bend the poking wire down with a pencil eraser or other smooth object so that it no longer pokes you. See your orthodontist to have the wire properly repaired.
Poking hook
Some patients have brackets with small hooks on them to attach rubber bands. These hooks can poke or irritate your lips or cheeks. Use a pencil eraser to push the hook in, or put a ball of wax on it.
Wire missing from back brace
Hard or sticky foods are often the culprits of bending or breaking the wires on your back braces. If this occurs, use tweezers or needle nose pliers to reinsert the wire into the hole in the back brace. If that’s not possible, clip the wire to lessen the irritation. See your orthodontist as soon as possible to have the wire replaced.
Sore teeth
It is normal for your teeth to be sore at the start of treatment, when wires are changed, or when appliances are adjusted. Discomfort should go away in 24-72 hours. It may help to rinse your mouth with warm water, eat soft foods, and take over-the-counter pain relievers. Contact your orthodontist if pain persists more than a few days.
