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How to Deal with Common Braces Problems

In most cases, wearing braces is a problem-free process for aligning and straightening teeth. However, even if you take care of your braces and teeth, there are certain common braces problems that you just can’t avoid. It’s important to know the type of issues that can potentially arise and how to deal with them.

Loose or Broken Brackets

Your orthodontist will likely provide you with a list of foods that should be avoided while wearing braces. In general, eating sticky candy or hard foods can cause the brackets to loosen or break. While a broken bracket is not an urgent problem, it’s important to schedule an appointment with your orthodontist so that repairs can be made. In the meantime, orthodontic wax may be applied to the broken bracket to provide some comfort until you can see an orthodontic specialist.

Sharp or Poking Wires

Occasionally, the wire in braces can stick out and irritate the inside of your mouth. When this happens, you can try pushing the wire back inside with a pencil eraser or a cotton swab. Another option is to bend the wire into a more comfortable position. Alternatively, try placing a ball of wax on the end of the wire for temporary relief until you can make an appointment to resolve the issue. The goal is to make yourself comfortable by creating a barrier between the wire and the inside of your cheek.

Teeth Discomfort and Soreness

Although the end result of a beautiful, healthy smile is worth it, braces can be uncomfortable at times. As your teeth begin to shift, you will likely experience tenderness in your teeth and jaws. Fortunately, there are a variety of effective ways to deal with teeth discomfort and soreness. If you experience discomfort, especially after having your braces tightened, try eating soft foods and take pain relievers as needed to reduce any soreness.

Loose Orthodontic Bands

Bands are the metal rings that are cemented around the back (and sometimes front) teeth. They can come loose when chewing on or eating sticky foods. Additional situations that can cause an orthodontic band to dislodge includes:

A failed bond between the tooth and the band.
Habits such as chewing ice or pens and pencils.
Pressure on the band from chewing hard foods.

If this occurs, be sure to schedule an appointment with your doctor as soon as possible regarding the issue so that the band can be properly repaired. Be sure to place the orthodontic band in a small bag and bring it with you to your appointment if it comes off. The longer your braces are loose or broken, the longer it will take for your orthodontic treatment to be completed.

Report Braces Problems to Your Orthodontist

Broken brackets, loose bands, and protruding wires take time to repair. Watching out for these common braces problems can prevent problems down the road. If you experience any of these issues while wearing braces, call the professionals at Moles & Ferri Orthodontic Specialists. Visit any one of our locations in the Milwaukee, Racine, and Brookfield area.