Troubleshooting Tips

Here are some ways to ensure your comfort when your appliance becomes loose or feel uncomfortable:

LOOSE BRACES: If a brace becomes loose or unglued from the tooth, normally the brace will remain attached to the wire and should not cause any discomfort. Because the brace is no longer attached to the tooth we will need to re-bond it. This is not an emergency, and the bracket will be rebonded at your next visit.

LOOSE BANDS: If a band (the very back brace that looks like a silver ring) becomes loose or comes completely off of the tooth, we will need to re-cement the band at the soonest available time if a headgear or a lip bumper attaches to it. This can take approximately 20 minutes. If headgear or a lip bumper is being worn, please bring the headgear or the lip bumper to the appointment as it may need adjustment after the band has been re-cemented.

POKING WIRE: Occasionally during orthodontic treatment, as the teeth begin to move, the wires may become longer in the back, and feel "pokey". This is normal, and may be relieved temporarily by placing a small ball of wax in the area to cover the sharp end or you may clip it yourself with small wire cutters.

SORE LIPS AND CHEEKS: During the initial adjustment of having braces, you may experience sore lips and cheeks due to the braces rubbing up against them. Usually this is just a temporary situation. You can relieve some irritation by placing a small ball of wax over the braces that are causing the discomfort. If canker sores develop, it may be helpful to rinse with a warm glass of salt water 2-3 times per day. This will help the sore lips and cheeks heal faster.

SORE TEETH: The teeth may become sore from the pressure of the braces moving the teeth. This is also normal especially in the initial stages of braces, as well as after an orthodontic visit, due to new wires or adjustments, which may leave the teeth feeling "tightened". Softer foods should be eaten to make eating more comfortable during these periods. It may be necessary to take some pain relievers such as Tylenol or Advil.

OTHER QUESTIONS OR PROBLEMS: Please don't hesitate to call our office if you have any problems or questions. We would like you to have a pleasant experience wearing braces while we make you a Beautiful Smile! 1-207-885-1005