A wire has come out at the back

In the early stages of treatment, we use very thin wires. Therefore, hard foods or aggressive cleaning of your teeth may dislodge the wire at the back. This is much more common in patients who have had extraction of teeth for brace work. This problem can usually be prevented by following the dietary advice for fixed braces .

If the wire has come out and is not causing discomfort, we do not usually need to see you any earlier.

If you feel wire digging in, orthodontic wax can sometimes be used to reduce any discomfort. A small pea-sized amount of the wax is rolled between your thumb and index finger until it is soft. It can then be placed on the offending part of the brace and wire. If you do not have any orthodontic wax, use some of the waxy coating of a Babybel cheese. If the wax does not stay on well, use a larger piece or try to dry the area that you want the wax to stick to. Use some kitchen roll or a handkerchief. You will need to do this for several days until your cheek gets use to the wire.

If we think you may be prone to this problem, we may show you how to re-insert the wire back into the last bracket using a pair of tweezers. The wires used at the start of treatment are usually quite flexible and they can be bent without permanent distortion. A pair of tweezers is being used in the images to move the wire into the correct place. It is then guided into position.

If you feel the wire is too long or you have tried wax and it is not helping, contact the practice for an earlier appointment.