ORTHODONTIC TIPS & TRICKS FOR SUCCESS
(At-Home Emergency Guide)
What to do when something feels off , before your next visit
We know life happens, wires poke, brackets loosen, and appliances don’t always behave between appointments. This guide will walk you through simple at-home fixes to keep you comfortable until we can see you in the office. If something doesn’t feel right or you’re unsure, call us, we’d rather hear from you early than have you uncomfortable at home.
FOR PATIENTS IN BRACES
Braces Troubles? Start Here
Pokey Wires
Most pokey wires can be easily managed at home.
What to do:
Dry the area as best you can
Roll orthodontic wax into a small ball
Gently press it over the poking wire or bracket
Wax is available in our office, and can also be found at most pharmacies or online.
Pokey Wire Fix with Wax
Learn how to quickly relieve irritation at home
Sores, Cuts, or Irritation
Rinse with warm salt water
Use wax over irritating areas
Most minor sores heal quickly once irritation is removed
Call us if:
It doesn’t improve in a few days
You notice swelling, pus, or increasing pain
Broken Brackets
Don’t panic, this is very common.
What to do:
If a bracket falls off, it can usually wait until your next visit
If a wire is poking your cheek, use clean nail clippers to carefully trim it if you can safely access it
Cover any sharp area with wax afterward
If you cannot safely reach the wire, do not force it , call us and we’ll guide you.
Broken Bracket Temporary Fix
Simple steps to stay comfortable until your appointment
Call us right away so we can replace it and protect your smile.
Bite Jumpers
These appliances continue working between visits.
What to watch for:
Teeth shifting more than expected
New discomfort or uneven bite feeling
Springs coming apart from the rods
If anything feels unusual, call our office so we can check it.
Bite Jumper Tips
What to do if your springs come out
Elastics (Rubber Bands)
Replace elastics as instructed
Do not share elastics
Call us if you run out, we can replace them quickly
FOR EXPANDERS
If you are having any issues with your expander or appliance, please call our office. We will guide you on next steps and make sure everything is working properly.
Need help with your expander?
FOR INVISALIGN PATIENTS
Tray Wear Tips
Wear aligners full-time unless instructed otherwise
After 2 weeks, you may wear them at night only if needed (only if previously approved)
Keep your last 2 sets of trays as backups
Need more help with your aligners?
Elastics with your Invisalign
Continue wearing as directed
If something breaks, stop and call us so we can adjust your plan safely
Aligner Fit Issues
If trays don’t fit well:
Wear them longer per set
Use chewies to help seat trays properly
Chewies are small soft cylinders that help your aligners fully seat over your teeth for better movement.
FOR RETAINERS
Lost or broken retainer?
