Fortunately, the majority of orthodontic problems are minor, but they can still cause discomfort and irritation. In general, it is best to sooth and address the immediate cause of the problem at home first. If you are unable to remedy the discomfort at home, please contact our office to schedule an appointment. Please do not come to our office directly – Call our office first – so we can create a dedicated time to see you.

Here are some common minor orthodontic problems and tips you can do to relieve them at home:

The first week after your braces are initially placed, you will likely feel some discomfort of your teeth. For minor soreness, you may use your regular over-the counter pain reliever. A heating pad placed on the outside of the jaw may also offer some relief.

This problem is often caused by careless eating or biting into hard and chewy food or playing with braces. Typically, this is not an emergency, but the bracket or band may need to be rebonded. If the band or bracket is still attached to the wire, leave it as it is and do not connect elastics to the broken band or bracket. If the loose bracket or band is causing irritation to your mouth, consider covering the bracket or band with orthodontic wax. If the bracket or band is loose and has come off the wire, please save the bracket or band. In either case, contact our office and we will schedule a visit for you. Be sure to bring any loose bracket or band to your visit.

As your teeth move, the wire that connects your teeth may start to move and poke the back of your mouth.  You can try moving the wire into a better position by using a Q-tip.  If this does not work, you may use a clean and new utility cutter or nail clipper that have been washed and sterilized in alcohol to cut the poking wire.  When the wire or bracket is causing irritation, you can cover it with orthodontic wax to alleviate the discomfort.  If you cannot resolve the wire irritation, please call our office for an appointment.

Our goal is to make your orthodontic treatment as pleasant as possible. If you need orthodontic comfort-care advice, please contact our office.