Most problems that happen with your braces or other orthodontic appliances can be treated as soon as you can schedule an appointment with your orthodontist. You should contact their office if you have severe pain or a painful problem with your appliance that you can’t remedy yourself. In the meantime, there are some solutions you can try that offer temporary relief until you can get into the office. Here are some common problems that occur with appliances, and solutions that may help.
Loose bracket or band
Leave the bracket or band in place if it’s loose but still attached. Place some wax on it to hold it steady. If the bracket or band falls off completely, wrap it in a tissue to take with you when you see your orthodontist.
Loose wire
Try using tweezers to put the wire back in place, and cover it with wax. If neither of these help, use a fingernail clipper to trim the wire after the last tooth to which it’s attached. Place wax over that until you see your orthodontist.
Loose appliance
Place wax over any part of the appliance that is loose and poking you.
Poking wire
Use a pencil eraser to push down the wire that is poking you, or place wax on it so it’s not uncomfortable.
Headgear discomfort
If you haven’t been wearing your headgear as instructed, that may be causing your discomfort. The more you wear it, the more comfortable it becomes. If any portion of it is bent, such as the facebow, call your orthodontist.
Soreness
It is normal for your mouth to feel sore for the first three to five days after getting braces. Rinsing your mouth with warm salt water may help, as does taking ibuprofen or other over-the-counter pain reliever.
