Zombek Orthodontics takes pride in providing braces that are both effective and comfortable. Today’s orthodontic materials are stronger and more efficient than ever before, but sometimes accidents happen. A bracket may loosen, or a piece of wire might start to irritate the inside of your mouth.
If you experience a braces issue, the first step is to stay calm. Most situations can be managed at home temporarily until you can visit our office for repair. Some problems can wait until your next appointment, while others may need attention sooner. Knowing how to tell the difference can make your treatment smoother and more comfortable.
One of the most common braces issues is a wire that begins to poke from the back of your braces. This can happen as your teeth shift during treatment.
The long wire that connects your braces brackets, called the archwire, gently moves your teeth into alignment. As your teeth move closer together, the wire may extend slightly out of the brackets, especially in the back. This is a regular part of treatment and may indicate that your teeth are progressing as planned.
If the wire is irritating your cheek or gums, use orthodontic wax to create a smooth barrier. Roll a small piece of wax between your fingers until it softens, then press it over the wire. Replace the wax after every meal or after brushing to keep it clean.
This should keep you comfortable until your next appointment. If the wire continues to bother you or causes soreness, call our office to schedule a quick adjustment.
A loose or bent wire is less common but should be addressed promptly. If a wire comes loose, cover it with orthodontic wax and contact our office for instructions. We suggest that you come in sooner for repair, depending on how the wire looks or feels.
Do not attempt to fix or cut the wire yourself. Bending or trimming it can damage your braces or interfere with your treatment. Keeping the area covered in wax will protect your mouth until you can be seen.
If a wire breaks completely, hold onto any pieces that come free and bring them to your appointment.
Brackets are carefully bonded to your teeth with a durable adhesive, but they can sometimes come loose if you eat something hard or sticky or if a wire is bumped.
If a bracket becomes loose but remains attached to the wire, cover it with orthodontic wax to prevent irritation and contact our office. Most of the time, the wire will keep the bracket in place until your visit.
If a bracket comes completely off the wire, store it in a clean container and bring it with you to your appointment.
If a bracket is accidentally swallowed, it is usually harmless. Brackets are made from non-toxic materials and will typically pass naturally through the digestive system. However, if you experience coughing, discomfort, or believe you inhaled it instead, seek medical care immediately.
Braces are designed to be strong, but certain foods or habits can still damage them. The most common causes include:
If you’re unsure what to eat with braces, our guide on braces-friendly foods covers what to enjoy and what to avoid during treatment. Around the holidays, especially Halloween, it helps to review our braces-friendly candy tips to protect your brackets while still enjoying your favorite treats.
Avoiding these habits can help prevent loose brackets or bent wires. Remember that food restrictions are temporary. Once your braces come off, you can return to eating your favorite foods again.
Braces can also be damaged during physical activity, especially in contact sports. We recommend wearing a mouthguard during practices and games.
A boil-and-bite mouthguard can be softened and molded at home to fit comfortably over your teeth and braces. If you need a custom mouthguard for a specific sport, our team can guide you toward a model that works best with orthodontic appliances.
Wearing a mouthguard reduces the risk of injury to your lips, cheeks, and braces, helping keep your treatment on track.
What should I do if a braces bracket comes loose?
If a bracket becomes loose or detaches from your tooth, cover it with orthodontic wax and call our office. Avoid trying to reattach it yourself. We will schedule a visit to secure it safely.
What if a wire is poking my cheek or gums?
Apply a small amount of orthodontic wax over the wire to create a smooth surface. This will protect your mouth until your next visit. If the irritation continues, call our office for assistance.
Can I cut or bend a braces wire at home?
We do not recommend cutting or bending wires at home, as this can make the issue worse or damage your braces. Cover it with wax and contact our team for guidance.
Is it normal for braces to feel loose sometimes?
As your teeth move, braces may occasionally feel less tight. If a bracket or wire feels unstable or painful, let us know so we can check it during your next appointment.
What should I do if I accidentally swallow part of my braces?
Braces parts are made from non-toxic materials and usually pass naturally. If you experience coughing, difficulty breathing, or pain, seek medical attention immediately and contact our office afterward.
Today’s braces are designed to be both durable and comfortable, but occasional issues can occur. Following proper care instructions, maintaining good oral hygiene, and keeping up with regular appointments can help prevent most problems.
If you have a braces emergency in Weston or Hollywood, FL, contact Zombek Orthodontics. You can even start with a virtual consultation if you’re not sure whether your situation needs an in-office visit. Our team will guide you on how to stay comfortable until you arrive and ensure your braces are repaired quickly and safely so your treatment stays on track.
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