A poking wire from braces can be uncomfortable, irritating cheeks, lips, or gums. This common issue arises when the archwire extends beyond a bracket, often due to teeth shifting or the wire becoming dislodged. Several home steps can provide temporary relief and prevent further irritation or sores.
Immediate Home Remedies
Orthodontic wax offers a straightforward solution to alleviate irritation. To apply, ensure your hands are clean and the area around the poking wire is dry; a cotton swab or gauze can assist. Roll a pea-sized piece of wax between your fingers to soften it, then gently press it over the protruding wire, molding it to cover the sharp end. This creates a smooth surface, providing immediate comfort until professional help.
If orthodontic wax is unavailable, or if the wire has shifted, a soft object can gently reposition it. A clean cotton swab or pencil eraser can push the wire away from the irritated area, tucking it closer to the teeth or back into the bracket slot. For wires out of a molar bracket, clean tweezers can carefully guide it back. Avoid excessive force to prevent further damage to the wire or braces.
As a last resort for severe discomfort when professional help is not immediately accessible, carefully clipping the wire may provide temporary relief. This should only be attempted with clean, sterilized nail clippers or wire cutters, ideally with adult assistance. Clip the poking segment as close to the bracket as possible, taking caution not to cut too close to the gums or swallow the piece. After clipping, apply orthodontic wax to smooth any remaining sharp edges.
When to Contact Your Orthodontist
While home remedies offer temporary relief, certain situations necessitate contacting your orthodontist promptly. Persistent or severe pain not improving with home care, or an inability to eat comfortably, indicates a need for professional intervention. These symptoms might suggest a more significant issue.
Contact your orthodontist if the wire causes cuts, bleeding, or sores inside your mouth, as these can lead to complications. If a wire detaches from a bracket and cannot be re-inserted, or if a bracket becomes loose or breaks, professional repair is required. Delaying repair can hinder treatment progress and potentially cause further damage.
If any home remedy, such as attempting to push or clip the wire, worsens the situation, discontinue and contact your orthodontist immediately. They can assess the situation and provide necessary adjustments or repairs to ensure your treatment remains on track. Professional guidance is invaluable for maintaining the integrity and effectiveness of your orthodontic treatment.
Preventing Future Pokes
Minimizing future pokes involves careful daily habits and regular orthodontic maintenance. Avoid foods that can damage braces components. Hard, sticky, or chewy foods like nuts, hard candies, chewing gum, and popcorn can dislodge or bend wires. Opt for softer foods and cut harder items into smaller, bite-sized pieces to reduce strain.
Maintaining consistent oral hygiene also prevents issues. Thorough brushing and flossing prevent plaque buildup, which can weaken the adhesive holding brackets and wires. An orthodontic toothbrush designed for braces wearers can help reach all areas around the brackets and wires effectively.
Wearing a mouthguard during sports or physical activities provides a protective barrier for your braces, reducing the risk of impact-related damage that could result in displaced or poking wires. Regular check-ups with your orthodontist are also beneficial, allowing for timely adjustments and identification of potential issues before they cause discomfort or damage.