Traditional metal braces are made up of multiple components, one of which is wire. This wire is what threads through the brackets that are adhered to the surfaces of the teeth. The orthodontist in Fort Myers, FL tightens this wire during office visits, which adds slight pressure to the teeth, ultimately shifting them into the desired position.

Possible Problems With Metal Braces Wire

The ends of the wire are carefully twisted and tucked by the orthodontist so that the wire doesn’t irritate the soft tissue inside the mouth. However, on rare occasions, a stray wire end comes loose, and it might poke the patient’s inner lip, cheek or gums. When this happens, it’s quite painful and irritating. It can cause anywhere from a minor abrasion to a more serious cut.

First Things First

As is most things in life, problems with your braces wire often happen outside of normal business hours, on weekends and holidays. But you should still make a phone call to your orthodontist’s office, informing them of the problem. Then, as soon as they open, they’ll get the voicemail and contact you to make arrangements to come in so the orthodontist can fix the problem.

Quick Fixes

It’s best not to try to actually adjust the wire yourself, since you don’t know why it came loose, or what’s going on. Wait for your appointment. In the meantime, get some dental wax from the drugstore. Roll a small piece of the wax into a ball, press it onto the wire, and smooth it out to keep it secure. If you can’t get dental wax, you can use a chunk of Chapstick or another lip balm, balled up and applied as described. Avoid using chewing gum, as this will cause sticking problems trying to remove it from your braces.

Metal braces in Fort Myers, FL needn’t be uncomfortable, but sometimes issues occur. Hopefully, these tips will help until you can get to your orthodontist for a permanent solution.

Does your child have a problem with their bite? These issues can cause problems with chewing foods and pronouncing words, affecting your child’s day-to-day life. But our orthodontist in Fort Myers and Cape Coral, FL, at Richards & Associates Orthodontics offers functional appliances that can help treat these problems before they get worse. Let’s discuss different types that are available!

Twin Block

This functional appliance has two parts that make an inclined surface, pushing the lower jaw forward. Both parts are secured to your child’s teeth with wires. Our orthodontist might recommend this if your child’s upper jaw protrudes over the lower more than it should.

Bionator

This removable appliance connects to the back of your child’s upper front teeth, making a slant that gently shifts the lower teeth forward. This helps promote proper alignment using jaw muscles. We may recommend this as an option when the lower jaw is too far back.

Palatal Expanders

These appliances help create room in your child’s mouth to accommodate permanent teeth. Our orthodontist might recommend this if permanent teeth won’t have enough space to get through the gums.

Herbst Appliance

This functional appliance connects to the lower and upper molars and has a spring attached. The spring causes the lower jaw to move forward, supporting proper jaw alignment. Herbst appliances typically provide quicker results compared to other appliances, making them a convenient option.

Schedule an Appointment Today With Our Orthodontist!

Do you think your child may benefit from a functional appliance? At Richards & Associates Orthodontics, our orthodontist offers different functional appliances in Fort Myers and Cape Coral, FL, to help correct misalignment and bite problems. We can help you choose the best appliance for your child’s teeth!

You might need to wear a nighttime appliance, either as part of your primary orthodontic treatment in Fort Myers, FL, or after braces have come off, so your teeth can stabilize in their new position. These appliances are made well, but they aren’t impervious to damage. Here’s how to take care of them.

Regularly Check for Wear and Tear

Over time, even well-maintained appliances can develop small cracks or weak spots. Many nighttime appliances have some metal parts. What can happen is called metal fatigue. This is where a bend causes the metal to eventually snap. What you can do is just take a good look at it regularly. You’re looking for any signs of damage, and if you notice any bending or discomfort, go ahead and schedule an appointment with your orthodontist in Fort Myers, FL to have them take a look at it.

Store It Properly

Don’t be leaving your appliance unprotected on a nightstand or bathroom counter, because you don’t know what could happen to it. Just tuck it into its storage container when you aren’t using it. Then put the storage container in a drawer—not on a countertop—so there’s no way it can accidentally get knocked off the counter or desk. Also, avoid placing it near heat sources, such as radiators or direct sunlight, as excessive heat can warp any plastic that’s on it.

Handle With Care

When inserting or removing your appliance, use gentle, even pressure rather than forcefully pulling or twisting it. Many retainers and night guards are made from flexible material, but excessive bending can weaken their structure over time. Avoid clicking or playing with the appliance using your tongue, as this can also cause warping or fractures.

With proper care, your nighttime appliance can remain in excellent condition, helping to maintain your healthy smile for years to come.