Loose Wire

Occasionally a wire may slip out of a bracket, especially towards the start of treatment.  The most common location for this to happen is from a back (molar) bracket. This can be fixed by carefully using tweezers to re-insert the wire into the bracket slot.  If you are unable to get the wire back into the bracket slot you can also use the tweezers to move the wire under the bracket into a comfortable position until you can have your orthodontist reinsert it.  To ensure this is safely done have an adult help you.  If none of these tricks work then, as a last resort, use small fingernail clippers to clip the wire behind the last tooth to which the wire is securely fastened. 

Poking Wire

Due to normal shifting of the wire, one side can become longer out of the back of the last brace and cause discomfort by poking into your cheek or other soft tissue in your mouth.  This also commonly happens when space is being closed between your teeth.  You can ease this discomfort by using a pencil eraser to pushing the pokey wire back into the slot or bending it down around the bracket.  If you are unable to put the wire back into place, then apply wax to alleviate your discomfort until you can arrange to see your Orthodontist.  

• Wax Application: If you have a pokey wire or a bracket rubbing against a sore spot, wax is the number one option to turn to. It is most effective to have a clean and dry area when applying wax. First, brush your teeth, then dry the problem area using a Q-tip, gauze or clean tissue. Hold your cheek away from your teeth to ensure the area stays dry. Roll a pea size amount of wax into a ball and press it firmly onto the problem bracket or wire. If you don’t have wax available, sugarless gum can often be used as a substitute.