ORTHODONTIC CONCERNS AND DISCOMFORT

Using Orthodontic Wax

You will be given a container of wax. Keep it handy during the first few weeks as it can be used to allow for faster healing in areas where cheeks or lips are being rubbed by braces.

When a sore appears, find out which bracket is causing it. It will typically be the bracket closest to the sore. Dry the bracket with a tissue. Place a small ball of wax on the bracket and gently press into place. This will eliminate any irritation to the sore and allow it to form a callous (tougher layer of tissue). This will take about 24 hours. Eventually the orthodontic patient will develop tougher tissues in the entire oral cavity (approximately 2-6 weeks).

Wax should be removed to brush the teeth. A sulcabrush or toothpick may be the best tool for this as you can slip it under the wax and lift it off in one piece.

If you are ever faced with a sudden impact to the teeth, e.g. sports (ball or body part collides with your mouth), accident (vehicle, fall), a strip of wax can be laid over the entire area of the brackets that were impacted. Wax can also be used to smooth over a sharp wire until you can arrange an appointment.

Orthodontic Concerns

IF A WIRE IS CAUSING IRRITATION

Try pushing the wire away from the area by using the eraser end of a pencil or a Q-tip. If the wire cannot be tucked in, cover the protruding wire with orthodontic wax or a piece of sugarless gum. Cutting the wire should only be done as a last resort if professional help is unavailable.

IF THE MAIN WIRE HAS COME OUT OF THE TUBE/BRACKET

If the main wire has come out of the tube/bracket on the back molar tooth, you may attempt to reinsert the wire with a clean pair of tweezers or needle nose pliers. If unsuccessful in placing the wire back in the slot, place a piece of wax over the spot that is irritating. If the wire is poking you and wax does not help, the wire can be cut with clean nail clippers close to the back of the last brace. Cutting the wire should only be done as a last resort if professional help is unavailable.

IF A BRACKET IS LOOSE

In most cases it will remain attached to the archwire. A loose bracket can generally be left in place until you are seen in our office. You may use a pair of clean tweezers to reposition the bracket if it flips on the wire and becomes a source of irritation. Call or email our office as soon as you notice a loose band or bracket.

At the start of treatment, it is not uncommon for the orthodontic archwire to not extend to the very last bracket. This is not a cause for concern and was done intentionally. Should that last bracket that is not connected to the archwire come loose, this is not a problem and it will be repaired at your next regularly scheduled appointment. If there is discomfort associated with this, please use orthodontic wax for interim relief.

IF AN ELASTIC CHAIN BREAKS

In most cases, the elastic chain breaks closest to the biting surface. Upon closer inspection, you will likely see that the portion of the elastic chain nearest the gum tissue is still intact. This is not a concern, unless you are booked for the removal of your braces and see a space opening in the site.

Discomfort

Now that your braces have been put on, it is normal for the first 2-7 days to be uncomfortable. Teeth will feel achy and sore. You should take whatever you usually take for pain – Advil works well, but consult with your physician if there are any concerns with certain types of medication.

Stick to a soft diet – try yogurt, soups, pasta, etc. It will probably take about 2 weeks for you to adjust to having braces on your teeth. Lips and cheeks might feel sore at first, but over time they will toughen up and adjust. Warm salt water rinses help to soothe sore cheeks and lips. Rinse with warm salt water and then apply wax to the problem areas. Remember that good oral hygiene is very important.