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Problems & Solutions
You may be able to solve many braces problems (temporarily, by yourself) until you schedule a repair appointment with our office.
1. Soreness Caused from Braces and Appliances
When you first get your braces, you may notice that your teeth and mouth feel a little tender or sore. This is perfectly normal and we promise your mouth will not be sore forever! During the first week after your braces are in place and when new wires are placed, you will likely feel some pain, soreness or discomfort. You may take acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or other non-aspirin pain relievers while you adjust to your new braces.
It is also not uncommon for your lips, cheeks, and tongue to become irritated for one to two weeks as they toughen up and become used to the braces. We give you wax that you can put over the sharp areas of the braces to protect the soft tissues of your mouth. If you need more wax, please let us know. You can stop in and get more wax or we can mail it to you. To accelerate healing of the irritated areas, we recommend dissolving one teaspoon of salt in eight ounces of lukewarm water. Swish and spit this solution in your mouth until the solution is gone. DO NOT SWALLOW THE SALTWATER!
2. Loose Band or Bracket
If the band or bracket is still attached to the wire, leave it in place. if uncomfortable, place wax on it. If it comes out completely, put the band or bracket in a baggie and bring it with you to the repair appointment.
3. Loose Wire
If the wire comes out of the bracket or band, try to place it back in place using tweezers. If this is not possible, clip the wire with fingernail clippers or wire cutters behind the last tooth to which it is securely fastened. If it is causing discomfort, place wax on it.
4. Poking Wire
If the wire is poking you, you can try to bend the wire slightly using an eraser. You may also try to slide the wire over a little bit. If that is not possible, place wax on the sharp end.
5. Loose Teeth
If your teeth begin feeling a little loose, don't worry; this is normal! Your braces must first loosen your teeth to move them into the right position. Once your teeth have been repositioned, they will no longer be loose.
Take Care of Your Appliances
Damaged appliances can increase the length of your treatment process, so be sure to take care of all of your appliances. Your teeth and jaw can only move into their correct positions if you consistently wear the rubber bands, retainer, or other appliances prescribed by your doctor.