Loose Bracket / Wires

Loose Bracket and Wires at Emergency Dental CareBraces can transform a smile, but when these appliances come loose, it is important to take immediate action.

Why did my bracket or wire come loose?

Braces are a complex appliance inside the mouth with many
components and breaks and other damage are common with orthodontic
appliances. Some of the most common causes are

  • hard or sticky foods
  • sports injuries
  • accidents
  • normal wear and tear

What do I do when my bracket or wire comes loose?

  • First, call a dentist immediately at (516) 565-3435 or (516) 348-2000.
  • Try to avoid worsening the problem, and do not attempt to remove the appliance yourself.
  • If wires or other pieces of the loose appliance are causing discomfort, cover them with a piece of candle or orthodontic wax.
  • Gently move any protruding wires away from the
    sensitive tissue inside the mouth with a pencil eraser to prevent
    discomfort and injury.
  • If pieces of the appliance, such as spacers or bands fall out, save them and bring them to your appointment.
  • If you are in pain, rinse your mouth with warm salt water, and take a mild pain relieving medication.

How do I prevent my bracket or wire from coming loose?

  • Always follow guidelines given by your orthodontist.
  • Avoid excessively sticky, chewy, and hard foods.
  • Wear a protective mouth or lip guard during athletic activities.

If you need dental emergency assistance, please call (516) 565-3435 if you’re in the Franklin Square area and (516) 348-2000 if you’re in the Syosset area.


The content offered on this website is for informational purposes only and does not seek to diagnose and/or treat any physical, medical, dental, and/or periodontal condition or disease. In addition, the offering and consumption of this content does not establish a doctor patient relationship. If you are experiencing any pain, discomfort, swelling, and/or bleeding in your mouth and/or jaw this may represent a serious condition and can only be diagnosed and treated by visiting a medical doctor, dentist, and/or periodontist in person.