Broken archwires
If a wire breaks or sticks out of a bracket or band and is poking your cheek, tongue or gums, call us right away so that we can schedule you for an appointment for repairs. Until your appointment, try using the eraser end of a pencil to push the wire into a more comfortable position. If you can't reposition the wire, cover the end with orthodontic wax, a small cotton ball, or piece of gauze until you can get to us. Never cut the wire.

Loose brackets and bands
If a bracket or band loosens or breaks, please call us right away so that we can schedule you for an appointment for repairs. While you are waiting to come to see us, temporarily reattach loose braces with a small piece of orthodontic wax. Alternatively, place the wax over the braces to provide a cushion. See us as soon as possible. If the problem is a loose band, save it and call us for an appointment to have it re-cemented or replaced (and to have missing spacers replaced).