Braces usually do their job effectively without problems. But sometimes an issue may pop up that needs attention. Most common braces problems can be fixed at home with relatively simple solutions. But if an orthodontic emergency occurs, such as a broken wire or bracket, contact Castle Hills 3D Orthodontics at 469-598-1700 right away and we’ll make time to see you as soon as possible.
Non-emergency issues with your braces are usually easy to fix. Here are some of the most common braces problems and solutions.
Problem: Rough wire. It is common after braces are first put on or after an adjustment, for a wire to be out of place that pokes the inside of your cheek or lip. Sometimes a wire doesn’t get tucked in far enough or trimmed off close enough and a rough end is left.
Solution: Attempt to tuck it in using a pencil eraser to push on it. If this doesn’t work, put orthodontic wax over the rough wire and make an appointment to have the wire fixed.
Problem: Irritation inside cheeks or lips. When you are first getting used to your braces, it is common for the brackets to irritate the inside of your cheeks and lips. Even when every wire is tucked neatly into place, the mouth may not be used to the foreign metal of the braces.
Solution: Orthodontic wax can be used to smooth over the brackets, allowing the sores to heal. Once your mouth gets used to the braces you probably won’t need the wax anymore. Swishing with warm salt water encourages sores to heal faster. Ora-Gel and similar products can help numb and protect the sore areas while they heal. Anti-inflammatory pain relievers, such as ibuprofen can also provide some relief.
Problem: Food stuck in braces. Some foods can get stuck in brackets and underneath the bands that go around the back molars. Getting a piece of food stuck in your braces can be painful and at the very least, uncomfortable.
Solution: Start with the traditional methods of getting food out of your teeth, such as toothpicks, floss, and your toothbrush. Another tip: tie a knot in your floss to help clear the food out. If the food is stuck and will not budge, you may need to visit with us. This is why certain foods are banned while wearing braces.
Problem: Sore teeth or jaw. It is normal to experience soreness in your teeth and jaw after getting braces put on. A lot of pressure is put on teeth when the brackets and bands are placed, which can cause your mouth to be sore when chewing for 4-5 days. And every time you return for adjustments are made that can cause soreness to return, but for a shorter period of time, maybe just a day or two.
Solution: Eat soft foods for the first few days. Pain relievers, such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen, can help to reduce the ache in your teeth and jaw.
Problem: Infected Sores. In severe cases, the sores that develop inside your mouth can become infected.
Solution: If this occurs, swishing with Peroxyl, an antiseptic rinse, will help to clear up the infection. Contact your Castle Hills 3D Orthodontics if the infection persists. They may refer you to your primary care doctor to prescribe you an antibiotic.
Problems Persist? Contact Castle Hills 3D Orthodontics
If these or other problems arise that you can’t seem to get relief from, contact Castle Hills 3D Orthodontics. We can recommend other solutions or fit you in for an appointment right away to assess the situation and attempt to find a better fix for the problem. Braces don’t have to be uncomfortable when you work with a caring doctor. Before you leave our office, we recommend that you check carefully to make sure nothing feels rough or out of place so that we can correct it before it becomes a problem.
If you have a problem or an orthodontic emergency, call 469-598-1700 today or request an appointment. We will do our best to provide a solution to any problem you are having with your braces.