Schedule An Appointment

Orthodontic Emergency

Poking Wire

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.

All Dental Emergencies

How to Stop the Poking

Work down this list and your child will be comfortable fast.

1

Cover it with wax

A small ball of orthodontic wax over the wire's end protects the cheek immediately.

2

Guide it back

If the wire slid to one side, gently nudge it back with a clean cotton swab.

3

Trim as a last resort

For a long, sharp wire, a parent can carefully trim it with clean clippers, then wax the end.

4

Call us

Phone (801) 676-3700 and we'll adjust it properly at a quick visit.

Annoying, not alarming

Wires shift as teeth move. It's normal and easy to fix.

Instant relief with wax

Orthodontic wax over the tip stops the poking right away.

A quick adjustment

We'll settle the wire properly at a short visit.

Soothing the Sore Spot

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.

Why Wires Start Poking

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.

When to Call Us

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.

Common questions

Can I cut the wire myself?

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.

Why is my wire poking now?

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.

What if we're out of orthodontic wax?

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.

Where to go next

Need to be seen?

Call your office first — most dental emergencies are seen the same day.

Schedule an appointment