A loose bracket or poking wire isn’t necessarily an emergency, but it will certainly disrupt your day—and your treatment. If you’re in Houston and have an issue with your braces, Dr. Jim Watson wants you to know: Don’t panic, but don’t delay getting it checked.
Loose wires and crooked brace brackets are common. They can happen when eating hard foods, flossing too hard, or just from normal wear and tear. These issues are not necessarily emergencies, but if you ignore them, they could make your treatment take longer or cause pain that gets worse.
This is what you can do to stay comfortable and protect your smile until you see your orthodontist.
Why a Bracket or Wire Might Loosen
Several things may bend or dislodge your braces:
- Munching on foods ( like nuts or ice) that put pressure on the braces
- Biting into chewy foods like bagels or candy
- Accidental mouth blows
- An incorrect brushing technique that places additional stress on the bracket bond
It is also important to note that broken brackets are not a sign of you doing something incorrectly. Even when you are extremely careful to follow your orthodontist’s advice, small things can still go wrong. The secret is knowing what to do.
Steps to Take at Home
Until you can reach your orthodontist in Houston, these are safe steps to take:
1. Avoid pulling or cutting the wires.
If a wire is irritating your cheek, try to push it down flat using the eraser end of a pencil.
2. Use orthodontic wax.
Available in pharmacies, this wax can be pressed over a loose bracket or poking wire so that it will not cause irritation to your mouth.
3. Salt water rinse.
This helps prevent infection if the bracket or wire has caused a sore.
4. Contact your orthodontist.
Although it might be tiny, you should let your orthodontist know that this has happened. They’ll tell you if you need to come in soon or if you can wait till your next appointment.
When to Call for a Visit
Dr. Jim Watson and his team recommend calling their office if:
- A bracket was completely removed
- A wire is sticking out, and it hurts
- You swallowed a bracket or piece of wire
- You’re having severe pain
Reaching the best orthodontist in Houston will prevent a small issue from developing into a bigger one. Receiving prompt treatment keeps your smile in sync and avoids your treatment taking longer.
How to Take Good Care of Your Braces?
To avoid another issue:
- Skip foods that your orthodontist asks you to avoid after orthodontic treatment
- Do not chew pens or fingernails
- Brush gently to keep wires and brackets intact
- Wear a mouthguard while playing sports
Remember, orthodontic treatment is a team process. Paying attention to small changes and acting on them goes a long way towards protecting your progress.
Schedule an Appointment with Dr. Jim Watson
If your wire came out or if a bracket is loose, don’t let things deteriorate any further. Dr. Jim Watson, a reliable Houston orthodontist, is at your service. Whether you’re in pain or just unsure of what to do next, call us. We’ll provide you with concise instructions and set an appointment for the next available date.