Orthodontic Braces Problems That You Can Fix at Home

Published Date: August 30, 2024 Last Update: September 26, 2024

Author: Dr. Manpreet S. Walia

Orthodontic braces are an effective way to straighten teeth and improve your smile, but they can also come with some annoying problems. This is because braces require some extra care and maintenance, but the good news is that many of your common braces problems can be easily fixed without having to make an emergency appointment with your orthodontist. In this blog post, we'll cover some of the most frequent problems that arise with braces and provide simple solutions that you can do yourself to get instant relief. From dealing with poking wires to fixing loose brackets, you'll learn how to handle these braces problems so you can keep your braces working effectively and your mouth feeling comfortable. Read on to discover the most common braces problems and how to fix them yourself.

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Common Braces Problems and Its Solutions

Here are some of the most frequent braces problems and their solutions:

1. Loose Brackets

If a bracket becomes loose, it can often be repositioned temporarily. Use tweezers to slide the bracket back into place against the tooth. If it remains loose, cover it with orthodontic wax for comfort until you can see your orthodontist.

2. Irritated Lips and Cheeks

Traditional metal braces can cause irritation to the soft tissues of the mouth. In order to reduce this discomfort, apply orthodontic wax to the brackets that are causing irritation. This wax can also be used on any protruding wires that may poke the inside of your cheeks.

3. Loose or Missing Elastic Ties

Elastic ties can sometimes loose or fall off, especially if sticky foods are consumed. If this happens, you can use tweezers to replace the elastic ties back onto the brackets. If you cannot reattach these elastic ties, inform your orthodontist at your next appointment.

4. Tooth Pain After Adjustments

It is common braces problems to experience discomfort after adjustments due to the pressure applied to the teeth. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen can help in reducing pain. Additionally, consuming soft foods can ease the discomfort. You can also try rinsing with warm salt water for better relief.

5. Protruding Wires

If a wire is sticking out and causing discomfort, you can trim it using a small nail clipper. Be sure to isolate the wire with a folded tissue and take help from your loved ones to avoid cutting your gums. If trimming isn't possible, cover the wire with wax to prevent irritation.

6. General Soreness

After getting braces, soreness is common. To reduce or get some relieve from general mouth or gums soreness, stick to a soft diet and rinse your mouth with warm salt water. If the pain is severe, consider taking an appropriate pain reliever.

7. Managing Emergencies

While many issues can be managed at home, it's crucial to know when to contact your orthodontist. Severe pain, significant damage to the braces, or any issue that cannot be resolved with at-home care should be addressed by a professional dental expert.

Conclusion

In conclusion, keeping your orthodontic treatment on track is essential for achieving the best results. Make sure to stay in regular contact with your orthodontist. They can provide helpful advice and schedule any necessary repairs to your braces. By staying engaged in your treatment, you’ll be one step closer to a beautiful and healthy smile!

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