What You Can Do
		What Your Orthodontist Will Do

Problems with braces can include:

• Broken braces (brackets)
• Broken wires
• Loose bands
• Loose braces
• Wires sticking out

Call and discuss the problem with your orthodontist or office staff. You may need to visit right away, or you may be able to fix the problem yourself until your next visit to the office. If the problem with your braces was caused by an injury (such as a blow to the mouth), seek help right away. Your orthodontist will let you know if you need immediate attention or if the problem can wait until your next appointment.

What You Can Do

• Loose bracket (brace) — The braces (also called brackets) are the metal or ceramic pieces that are attached to your teeth. They're usually attached using a material called composite resin. It is similar to the tooth-colored material used for some fillings. If you chew something hard or sticky, the resin can weaken or break. When that happens, a bracket can come loose. It may poke into your gums, tongue or cheek. When you first get your braces, your orthodontist will give you a special wax. You can put the wax over the bracket to keep it from poking you. This should provide some comfort until you can see your orthodontist.



• Loose band — Bands are the metal rings that are cemented around back teeth (and sometimes around front teeth). If a band becomes loose, call for an appointment to have it re-cemented or replaced. If the band comes off completely, do not try to put it back on. Save it and bring it to your appointment.



• Protruding or broken wire — This is a common problem. If a wire breaks or sticks out, it can hurt your cheek, tongue or gum. You may be able to use the eraser end of a pencil to push the wire into a better position. If that doesn't work, put a small piece of orthodontic wax over the end of the wire. Do not cut the wire. A cut wire can be accidentally swallowed or inhaled. If the wire has caused a sore, rinse your mouth with warm salt water or an antiseptic rinse. For salt water, use one-half teaspoon of salt in 8 ounces of water. Rinsing will keep the area clean and reduce discomfort. You can also use an over-the-counter pain reliever (such as Anbesol). This will temporarily numb the area. If the pain doesn't get better or the sore seems to be getting worse, call your orthodontist.



• Loose spacer — Spacers or separators are rubber rings that are put between your teeth. They are left in place usually for a few days. They open a small space between your teeth so that orthodontic bands will slip onto your teeth easily. Springs or brass wire may be used for this purpose. Sometimes spacers can slip out of position or fall out. If this happens, make an appointment with your orthodontist to have them replaced.

What Your Orthodontist Will Do