Braces use small ligatures (tiny rubber bands or thin wire ties) to hold the archwire in place.

• If a rubber ligature comes off, you may gently place it back using clean tweezers.
• If a wire ligature becomes loose, it can often be carefully removed with clean tweezers.
• If the wire is not loose but is irritating your cheek, gently push it away from the tissue using a Q-tip or clean pencil eraser.

Please contact our office so we can determine whether you need to be seen before your next scheduled visit.

Food can easily become trapped around brackets and wires. To remove it safely:

• Use dental floss, an interproximal brush, a floss threader, or a Waterpik®.
• A toothpick may help when used gently.
• Tying a small knot in the floss before threading it through the brackets can help dislodge stubborn food particles.
• Avoid sharp objects that could damage your braces or gums.

If a wire shifts and begins poking your cheek or gums, try gently pushing it back toward the tooth using a Q-tip or clean pencil eraser. If that doesn’t work, place orthodontic wax over the wire and call our office so we can adjust it properly.

Occasional sores may develop as your mouth adapts to braces. Rinsing several times a day with warm salt water can speed healing and reduce irritation. Oxyfresh® Gel Pro Relief may also help promote healing. For added relief, topical anesthetics such as Orajel® or Orabase® can be applied directly to the sore using a Q-tip.

For minor mouth sores, an antiseptic rinse such as Peroxyl® (contains hydrogen peroxide) can help reduce inflammation and promote healing. Use up to four times daily after brushing, following the product instructions.

Hard, sticky, or chewy foods can damage brackets and wires. Avoid ice, popcorn, hard candy, gum, and sticky sweets to prevent broken appliances and unexpected visits.

Brushing after every meal and flossing daily helps prevent cavities, gum inflammation, and white spots around brackets. Using fluoride toothpaste and a water flosser can make cleaning easier and more effective.

If elastics are prescribed, wearing them exactly as instructed is essential to keeping treatment on schedule. Inconsistent wear can significantly delay your results.

If you play sports, wear a mouthguard designed for braces to protect your teeth, lips, and orthodontic appliances.

If you experience persistent pain, broken appliances, swelling, or anything that doesn’t feel right, don’t wait, contact our office. Early attention helps prevent bigger issues and keeps your treatment progressing smoothly.