First Aid for Braces If a wire or bracket is irritating your mouth, try covering it with orthodontic wax to relieve the discomfort. If you discover a loose bracket, band or broken archwire, please call the office. We will evaluate if you can leave it until your next scheduled appointment or if you should reschedule your appointment sooner. If you break or lose a retainer, please call the office to schedule a convenient time to fabricate a replacement to prevent any unfavorable shifting of your teeth. If one of your bands are loose call the office immediately and arrange to have it fixed. Food trapped under a loose a band can cause rapid tooth decay. If one of the separators (spacers) has come out, clean the separator and insert two strands of dental floss through it. Holding both pieces of floss tightly, gradually floss the separator back into position. Once it is in place, pull out the strands. Teeth are hurting! If you just had your braces tightened, a little soreness can be expected. Try an over-the-counter, anti-inflammatory pain reliever such as ibuprofen and/or a warm salt-water mouth rinse (1 teaspoon of salt dissolved in 8 ounces of warm water). Sore spots usually develop on your cheeks right after you get your braces. This is normal. Try placing wax on the area that is irritating you and/or applying an over-the-counter numbing product such as Oral Base. Home | Your Account & Appointments | Doctor Skibell | Our Staff | First Visit Orthodontic Treatment | Fun and Games | Types of Braces | Glossary of Terms Foods to Avoid | Emergencies | Magical Movement | Patient Care Video | Office Location