Dental Braces Common Issues and Troubleshooting

Question 1

What should you do if a bracket comes loose from your tooth?

Accepted Answer

Contact your orthodontist to schedule a repair appointment

Answer

Glue it back yourself with super glue

Answer

Remove the bracket entirely and continue

Answer

Ignore it until your next scheduled visit

Question 2

What causes a poking wire at the back of the mouth with braces?

Accepted Answer

The archwire has slipped out of the last bracket or has extended past it

Answer

The bracket has fallen off

Answer

Excess rubber band use

Answer

Over-tightening during adjustment

Question 3

What is a safe temporary fix for a poking wire at home?

Accepted Answer

Use dental wax to cover the sharp end

Answer

Cut the wire with scissors

Answer

Remove the bracket near the wire

Answer

Use a toothpick to push it back

Question 4

Why do teeth feel sore for a few days after an orthodontic adjustment?

Accepted Answer

The new wire tension applies pressure to the periodontal ligament around tooth roots

Answer

Brackets scratch the gums during tightening

Answer

New adhesive releases a mild irritant

Answer

Blood flow to teeth temporarily increases

Question 5

What over-the-counter remedy is commonly used to relieve braces soreness?

Accepted Answer

Ibuprofen or acetaminophen

Answer

Antihistamines

Answer

Topical antifungal cream

Answer

Prescription pain medication only

Question 6

What should a patient do if they lose a rubber band for their braces?

Accepted Answer

Use a replacement from the bag provided by their orthodontist

Answer

Skip wearing elastics until the next appointment

Answer

Use a regular rubber band as a substitute

Answer

Double up on the remaining elastics to compensate