Orthodontic Emergency
Poking Wire: What to Do
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.
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.
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.
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.
Where to Find Us in West Jordan
Our Southpoint office sits near 9000 South and 1300 West in West Jordan, just east of Redwood Road and about a mile east of Bangerter Highway. We're minutes from Gardner Village, Veterans Memorial Park, and Jordan Valley Medical Center, with free parking right out front.
Wasatch Pediatrics Dentistry & Orthodontics: Southpoint 9071 S 1300 W Suite 100 West Jordan, UT 84088 (801) 676-3700 Call to BookAlso Serving Families Near West Jordan
Just outside West Jordan? We welcome patients from across Salt Lake County.
Common Questions About Poking Wires
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.
Wire bothering your child?
Call (801) 676-3700 and we'll adjust it.