General Soreness

For the first 3-5 days of braces, the gums, lips, and the tongue may be sore and teeth may be tender while chewing. To help the mouth adjust, try eating softer foods for the first few days and take a pain reliever if necessary. Rinsing with warm saltwater will also bring relief. It’s important to remember that general soreness in these areas is completely normal and the irritation won’t last forever. Your mouth will toughen up quickly!

Loose Bracket

In general, it’s recommended to avoid sticky or hard foods with braces. By eating these foods, the brackets may become loose on the teeth. If this occurs, the bracket can be left unattached from the wire until your next appointment. If the bracket is causing irritation, place a small piece of orthodontic wax on the bracket to provide relief and soften the area.

Loose Wire

Occasionally, the thinner wires may pop out of the braces in the back of the mouth. If this occurs, a parent or the patient can attempt to re-thread the wire back into place. If re-threading the wire back into place isn’t possible, the wire can be clipped with a nail clipper and fixed at the next appointment.

Poking Wire

If you experience a poking wire, use a pencil eraser to gently push the wire back in towards the braces. If there is discomfort when pushing it back, utilize orthodontic wax to cover the end of the wire.

Loose Appliance

Immediately place wax on anything uncomfortable and call the office right away.

Lost or Broken Retainers

Although it may not seem like an emergency, retainers are essential to the continued success of your orthodontic treatment and must be used as instructed by your doctor. Please call the office right away if you lose or break a retainer.