Braces Care & Emergencies
Something feel off with your braces? Most issues can be handled calmly at home until we can see you. Find your situation below.
Emergency? Call (586) 725-4411 during office hours. After hours, text 810-334-9005
Send a photo of the problem if you can. It helps us tell you exactly what to do next.
Find Your Situation
Common Problems & What to Do at Home
Poking Wire
Use the eraser end of a pencil or a clean cotton swab to gently push the wire flat against the teeth, away from your cheek. If it won't move, cover the end with a small ball of orthodontic wax to protect your mouth. Then call us (or text after hours) so we can fix it properly at your next visit.
Loose Wire
Using clean tweezers, try to gently guide the wire back into place in the bracket or tube it slipped out of. If it stays irritating, cover it with orthodontic wax. Never yank or cut a wire near the back of your mouth without talking to us first. Call us, or text after hours, and we'll walk you through it.
Loose Bracket
If the bracket is still attached to the wire, leave it in place and cover it with wax if it's rubbing. If it comes off completely, save it in a bag and bring it to your appointment. Don't try to re-attach it yourself. Let us know it happened so we can plan the repair.
Loose Appliance
If an expander or other appliance comes loose or a part is poking you, place wax over the spot that's causing irritation and avoid wiggling it with your tongue or fingers. Call us, or text a photo after hours, and we'll tell you whether it can wait or needs a visit.
General Soreness
It's normal for teeth to feel tender for a few days after getting braces or after an adjustment. Stick to softer foods, rinse with warm salt water, and use wax anywhere the braces rub while your lips and cheeks toughen up. If soreness is severe or doesn't ease after a few days, reach out. We want to know.
Prevention Is the Best Fix
Keep Your Braces Out of Trouble
Foods to Avoid
Most broken brackets start with the wrong snack. Know the list.
Brushing & Flossing
Clean braces are healthy braces. The right technique matters.
Oral Hygiene
Healthy teeth and gums move better and finish treatment faster.
Athletic Mouthguards
Playing sports? Protect your teeth and your appliances.
When in Doubt, Reach Out
No question is too small. Call us at (586) 725-4411, or if it's an emergency and it's after hours, text us at 810-334-9005. You can also schedule a visit and we'll get your treatment back on track.
Contact Our Offices