A true orthodontic emergency is rare but minor braces mishaps can occur. Explore what to do in the case of a broken bracket, poking wire, or irritation.
Braces Emergency? We’re Here to Help!
The team at Modern Zen Orthodontics is always here to support you. The good news is that most braces problems are minor and can be handled at home until your next appointment. If you have an issue that requires immediate attention or any questions, please don’t hesitate to call us at (301) 900-8010, and we’ll be happy to help!
Braces Irritation
When you first get braces, your lips, cheeks, and tongue may need a little time to adjust. Minor irritation is normal during the first week or so. It will go away once the soft tissues of your mouth get acclimated to your appliance. To soothe irritation, try rinsing with a saltwater solution (½ teaspoon of salt dissolved in 8 ounces of warm water) as often as needed.
You can also place orthodontic relief wax on the parts of your braces that are bothering you.
How to Use Wax for Braces:
- Wash your hands and break off a small piece of wax.
- Warm up the wax by rolling it into a ball between your fingers.
- Dry the area on your braces with a clean tissue.
- Gently press the wax over the part of your braces causing discomfort.
Loose or Broken Braces Bracket
A broken bracket isn’t usually an urgent issue. In most cases, you can wait a week or two before having it repaired. Here’s what to do in the meantime:
- If the bracket is at the front of the mouth and still attached to the wire, cover it with orthodontic wax if it’s causing any irritation.
- If the bracket is on the last tooth in the back and the wire is poking, you may need to trim the wire for comfort. Here’s how:
- Get a large nail clipper. Wash it off and sterilize it with alcohol.
- Carefully slide the loose bracket off the wire.
- Use the nail clipper to trim the wire as close to the next bracket as possible.
- Cover the trimmed wire end with wax to prevent discomfort.
Once you’re comfortable, give us a call to let us know about it. We’ll arrange a convenient time for you to come in to have the bracket repaired.
Poking Braces Wire
If a wire is poking or causing discomfort, you can use the eraser end of a new pencil or a clean cotton swab to carefully push it against the nearest tooth. Then, cover it with orthodontic wax. If that doesn’t help, follow the steps for trimming the wire at home. If this is still causing you discomfort, please call our office at (301) 900-8010.
