Braces Care & Comfort Guide

Helping You Handle Common Braces Problems at Home

Braces work gently but continuously to move your teeth into a healthier, straighter position. From time to time, you or your child may experience minor discomforts with braces. Most of these situations are not emergencies and can be managed at home until you're able to visit us.

1. Poking or Loose Wires

Sometimes the end of a wire can shift and start to irritate the cheek, tongue, or lips.

• Use a Q-tip or pencil eraser to gently push the wire so it lies flat against the tooth.
• If this doesn’t help, apply orthodontic relief wax over the area.
• If the wire continues to bother you, call our office so we can arrange a comfort visit.

2. Loose Brackets or Parts of Braces

Brackets can become loose if hard or sticky foods are eaten or if the mouth is bumped during sports or play.

• If the bracket is still attached to the wire, gently move it to a comfortable spot and cover it with wax.
• Do not try to remove any parts yourself.
• Call our office so we can schedule a repair appointment.

3. Mouth Sores (Ulcers)

These are not emergencies but can be uncomfortable.

• Apply a small amount of topical anesthetic (Orabase or Orajel) directly to the sore using a cotton swab.
• Cover any sharp areas with wax.

4. Soreness or Tender Teeth

It is normal for teeth to feel sore after braces are placed or adjusted.

• Eat soft foods for the first 2–3 days.
• Rinse with warm salt water.
• Use over-the-counter pain relievers if needed and allowed.

5. Food Stuck in Braces

Use dental floss, an interproximal brush, or a toothpick to dislodge trapped food.

6. Broken or Loose Elastic Chain

• Remove the loose piece with clean tweezers or cut it with sterile nail clippers.
• Call our office so we can replace it.

7. When to Call Our Office

• Persistent irritation or poking wires.
• Loose brackets that can’t be made comfortable with wax.
• Unusual swelling or strong pain.
• Any concerns about braces or comfort.

We are here to help ensure your braces experience is as smooth and comfortable as possible. If you have questions, please reach out to our Hamilton or Brantford offices.