Orthodontic Emergency
A braces wire poking the cheek or gums is a common annoyance as teeth shift. Here's how to get comfortable in the next five minutes, and when to have us adjust it.
Work down this list and your child will be comfortable fast.
A small ball of orthodontic wax over the wire's end protects the cheek immediately.
If the wire slid to one side, gently nudge it back with a clean cotton swab.
For a long, sharp wire, a parent can carefully trim it with clean clippers, then wax the end.
Phone (801) 676-3700 and we'll adjust it properly at a quick visit.
Wires shift as teeth move. It's normal and easy to fix.
Orthodontic wax over the tip stops the poking right away.
We'll settle the wire properly at a short visit.
Rinse with warm saltwater to calm irritation, and use a children's pain reliever if needed. A small sore from a poking wire usually heals quickly once the wire is no longer rubbing.
As teeth move (which is exactly what braces are for), the wire can end up with extra length at the back or shift to one side, and a loosened bracket can let it slide. It's a sign of progress more often than a problem, but it still deserves a proper adjustment.
Call (801) 676-3700 if you can't make your child comfortable, if a wire is badly out of place, or if a broken bracket is involved. We'll get you in to adjust the wire and check the rest of the braces while we're at it.
A poking wire feels bigger than it is. Wax it tonight, call us tomorrow, and we'll make it right.
Only as a last resort if it is long and very uncomfortable. Use clean clippers, guard the back of the mouth, and cover the end with wax. Then call us to adjust it properly.
Wires can shift as teeth move, or after a bracket loosens. It is normal and easy to fix. Wax solves it short term, and we will adjust it at your visit.
A small piece of sugar-free gum can work in a pinch, and we're happy to hand you more wax anytime. Just stop by.
Call your office first — most dental emergencies are seen the same day.