Wade Orthodontics: About Dr. Wade

• I have a “pokey” wire.
• I have a loose band or bracket.
• I have a spacer that has come out.
• One of my colored ties has come off a bracket.
• I have lost my rubber bands.
• I have lost my retainer.
• My retainer doesn’t fit.
• I just had my braces adjusted and my teeth are sore.

I have a “pokey” wire.

If a part of your braces is rubbing or irritating the inside of your mouth, first try covering that part of the braces with wax, which was provided to you when you first got your braces. Dry the braces thoroughly, and press a small piece of wax down over the area which is rubbing. Shape and adapt the wax so it grabs onto the braces. You can also use a clean pencil eraser to gently push a pokey wire back into place. If you are unable to resolve the problem, call the office and let us help.

I have a loose band or bracket.

If a band or bracket comes loose, please call the office immediately to let us know. If your bracket is loose but still attached to the wire, the repair can often wait until your next appointment without significantly delaying your treatment progress.

I have a spacer that has come out.

If you lose a spacer (also called a separator), please call our office. If necessary, we will arrange a time for you to come in to have the spacer replaced. Often, if the spacer has been in place for awhile, such an extra trip may not be necessary.

One of my colored ties has come off a bracket.

As long as you are comfortable, missing colored ties (ligatures) can normally be replaced at your next scheduled visit. If the area where the colored tie was lost is poking or irritating, try using some wax over the area to eliminate the irritation.

I have lost my rubber bands.

If you lose your rubber bands, call us right away and we will make arrangements for you to get replacements. If it is difficult for you to stop by the office (due to school, work, or driving distance) we can send new rubber bands to you by mail. Remember…rubber bands must be worn consistently in order for them to work properly. Replacing lost rubber bands quickly is easy and will help minimize any delays in completing your orthodontic treatment on time.

I have lost my retainer.

If your retainer is lost or broken, contact our office the next regular business day. We will advise you about repair or replacement options.

My retainer doesn’t fit.

If your retainer is not fitting, you should contact our office immediately to arrange a time to come in for an evaluation. Be sure to bring the retainer with you to this appointment so that Dr. Wade can check the fit.

I just had my braces adjusted and my teeth are sore.

After new braces are placed, teeth may feel tender from one to four days. This soreness is not unusual and will normally go away on its own. In the meantime, stick with soft foods and consider some Advil (ibuprofen) or Tylenol (acetaminophen) taken as directed on the packaging.

Have a problem not listed here? Click here for more Orthodontic First Aid.