Braces are great for straightening teeth—but sometimes, the wires or brackets can cause discomfort. Maybe something’s poking your cheek, a wire has shifted, or a bracket feels loose. While your specialist orthodontist is still the best person to manage your treatment overall, Switch Dental can help with those small, annoying issues that crop up between visits. If something’s bothering you and you can’t get to your orthodontist straight away, we’re happy to step in and provide some relief.
Orthodontic braces are built to move teeth steadily and safely, but occasionally they cause some short-term discomfort:
- Poking wire: As your teeth shift, the end of the wire at the back can start sticking out and rubbing your cheek.
- Wire shifted or loose: Sometimes the archwire moves out of position or pops out of the back molar tube.
- Broken or dislodged bracket/ligature: The tiny elastics or wires that hold your braces together might come loose or snap, leaving something sharp.
- General rubbing or irritation: In the early stages—or after an adjustment—brackets and wires can rub on the cheeks, lips, or tongue while your mouth adjusts.
These issues are usually not emergencies, but they can be frustrating and painful. Don’t feel like you have to just put up with it—we’re here to help if you need a quick fix.
Our role isn’t to replace your orthodontist, but we’re happy to offer interim help when things get uncomfortable:
- Trim a poking wire to stop it irritating your cheek
- Tuck a wire back into place if it’s slipped out
- Smooth off a sharp ligature or remove it if needed
- Supply orthodontic wax and show you how to use it
- Reassure you if you’re not sure whether it’s urgent
If the issue’s affecting your comfort or making it hard to eat or speak, just give us a call. We’ll let you know what we can do on the spot, or we’ll point you in the right direction if it’s something your orthodontist needs to handle.
If you can’t see us or your orthodontist right away, here are a few tips:
- Orthodontic wax: Roll a small ball and press it over the irritating area. This is your best first step.
- Pencil eraser: Gently push the wire away from your cheek (if it’s soft and safe to do so).
- Saltwater rinse: Helps soothe the soft tissue.
- Wire trimming: Only as a last resort—if safe and visible, and done by an adult with sterilised clippers. Be cautious to avoid swallowing any pieces.
But honestly, it’s better if you can come in. We can take care of it quickly and safely.
What should I do if a wire breaks?
Try to cover the sharp end with orthodontic wax and contact your orthodontist. If you need help sooner, we can often assist with trimming or tucking the wire.
Can I fix a poking wire myself?
You can try using wax or gently moving it with a clean eraser. Trimming it yourself is risky—only do it if absolutely necessary and you’re confident it’s safe.
Is it normal for braces to be sore?
Yes—especially after adjustments. General pressure or tenderness is normal, but sharp poking from a wire isn’t. That’s something we can help with.
Why See Switch Dental for Braces Discomfort?
Sometimes it’s not worth waiting days to see your orthodontist for a 2-minute fix.
At Switch Dental:
We’re local
We’re familiar
We’re here to help
We work with your ortho
We want to keep you comfortable so your orthodontic treatment stays on track.
