If you are wearing braces in Arlington or commuting from Burlington, little hiccups happen. A wire pokes at the end of practice on the Minuteman Bikeway. A bracket loosens while you are grabbing a bite near Arlington Center. Our office can help if you experience any of the ten most common issues our patients bring up. Dr. Varallo can provide tips on exactly what to do when struggling with common braces issues and when to call Varallo Orthodontics.
1. Fix A Poking Wire Fast And Safely
First, dry the area with a tissue or cotton swab. Press a pea-sized piece of orthodontic wax over the end until it feels smooth. If the wire still scratches and you cannot get in the same day, wash and disinfect a small pair of nail clippers, then trim the tiniest amount of visible wire.
Aim to clip only the very end. Take a close photo of the spot and call us so we can check that everything stays on track.
A warm saltwater rinse also calms irritated cheeks. Mix 1 cup of warm water with a half teaspoon of salt and swish for 30 seconds.
2. A Bracket Popped Off: Stabilize It And Call
If a bracket slides or spins on the wire, cover it with wax to stop it from moving. Avoid biting directly on that tooth. It may need a repair appointment to ensure tooth movement remains accurate. If the bracket fully detaches, keep it in a small container and bring it with you.
3. Ease Post-Adjustment Soreness Without Skipping Meals
Soreness usually peaks during the first 24 to 48 hours after braces are adjusted. Choose soft foods like yogurt, pasta, or soup. Rinse with warm salt water two or three times a day. Over-the-counter pain relief, taken as directed, helps for the first evening. Keep brushing and flossing so plaque does not build up along tender gums. The tenderness fades quickly.
4. If a Separator Fell Out, Be Sure To Call
Separators make a tiny space for a band. If one slips out, call our Arlington or Burlington office. Sometimes the space is already perfect and no extra visit is needed. Other times, we will replace it so your band fitting goes smoothly. Do not try to wedge it back yourself.
5. Thread, Brush, and Rinse If Food Is Wedged
When food packs under the wire, brushing alone is not enough, and can be one of the top common braces issues. Use a floss threader to guide floss under the wire and around each contact.
An interproximal brush, also called a proxabrush, reaches around brackets and under the archwire where string floss struggles. Finish with a long rinse. Check the gumline and the bracket edges in a mirror to make sure everything looks clean.
Fast routine for after lunch at Burlington High or the office near Cambridge Street:
- Thread floss under the wire between the two most “stuck” teeth.
- Work the floss up and down on each side.
Follow with the proxabrush around the brackets in that area. - Rinse well and check again.
6. If Your Chain Snapped, Do Not Reattach
A chain elastic helps close spaces. If it breaks or comes off, resist the urge to stretch it back. Keeping it half on can cause uneven pulling and slow progress. Keep the area clean, cover any sharp pieces with wax, and call for a short repair visit so the space closing stays on schedule.
7. If The Wire Slipped Out Of The Back Tube, Guide It Or Cover It
With clean hands and clean tweezers, try to slide the wire back into the back molar tube. If it goes in and stays, great. If it keeps slipping or poking, cover the end with wax and call us.
Take a quick photo so our team knows what tools to bring into the room for a same-day comfort fix.
8. Stop Hook Or Tie Irritation Quickly
Dry the area well, then press wax over the hook or tie that is rubbing. Wax sticks best to a dry surface. Rinse with warm salt water. If the spot still bothers you, ask us to smooth or polish the edge. A two-minute adjustment can make a huge difference, especially if you sing at Arlington High, play lacrosse at Rahanis Park, or talk a lot for work.
9. If Elastics Snapped And You Are Out, Get New Packs
Elastics guide the bite. If you run out, do not guess at a pattern or strength. Call the office for a fresh supply and a quick reminder on wear time. Wearing the wrong size or an old pattern can undo good progress. Keep a spare pack in your backpack or gym bag so you never miss a night.
10. What To Do If You Get Hurt During Sports
After contact, start with a cool water rinse. Cover any sharp edges with wax. Wear a mouthguard for every practice and game. If a bracket feels loose or a cut will not stop bleeding, call for an appointment. Seek urgent care first if a tooth is loose, a tooth has moved, or there is significant injury.
The Mini Kit To Keep In Your Bag
A small kit solves 90 percent of surprise moments, whether you are biking by Spy Pond or shopping at Burlington Mall. Pack:
- Orthodontic wax in a small case
- Floss threaders and a few pieces of pre-cut floss
- Interproximal brush
- Travel toothbrush and small toothpaste
- Compact mirror or your phone camera
- Over-the-counter pain relief as directed
- Clean nail clippers for true emergencies only
Restock the kit once a month. Put a reminder in your phone so you never discover an empty wax case at the wrong time.
What To Text Or Tell Us When You Call
Sharing a few details helps us help you faster:
- Which tooth or area is the problem
- What you have already tried
- A photo of the spot from two angles
- Any upcoming events, such as the home game at Pierce Field or a school concert so that we can prioritize timing.
Reach Out If You Are Struggling With One Of the Common Braces Issues
Call Varallo Orthodontics in Arlington or Burlington, or send us a message through our website. Tell us what is happening and share a quick photo. Dr. Varallo and our team will talk you through simple steps and help you schedule a visit if needed.