Getting braces is an exciting step toward a straighter, healthier smile, but many patients in High Point, NC, and the surrounding Triad area (including Greensboro, Winston-Salem, and Kernersville) experience common braces problems during treatment. At Basil Orthodontics, led by Dr. Anthony Basil, we offer personalized care for children, teens, and adults with traditional metal braces, clear ceramic braces, and Invisalign. These issues are usually normal and temporary, and with the right steps, you can stay comfortable and keep your treatment on track.
Why Do Teeth Feel Loose With Braces?
One of the most surprising sensations during braces treatment is the feeling that your teeth are loose or wiggly. This is completely normal and actually a positive sign that your orthodontic treatment is working.
Braces apply gentle, continuous pressure that triggers bone remodeling. The bone around each tooth breaks down on one side and rebuilds on the other. The periodontal ligament stretches and compresses, allowing teeth to shift gradually. This creates temporary mobility, especially in the first few weeks after placement or adjustments. Your teeth remain securely anchored and won’t fall out; the looseness is controlled and will resolve as treatment progresses.
To help during this phase, maintain excellent oral hygiene with thorough brushing and flossing (using threaders or a water flosser), stick to soft foods, and use over-the-counter pain relievers if needed for soreness. If the looseness feels extreme or is accompanied by severe pain, contact us right away.
What to Do If a Bracket Breaks
Broken or loose brackets are among the most common braces issues, often caused by biting hard foods, accidental impacts, or normal wear. While it can be frustrating, it’s usually a simple fix and not a true emergency.
Gently check if the bracket is still on the wire or fully detached, and save any loose piece to bring in. Cover sharp edges with orthodontic wax to prevent irritation, rinse with warm saltwater, and switch to soft foods like yogurt, pasta, and smoothies until your repair appointment. Avoid attempting to reattach it yourself.
Poking Wire in Braces
A poking wire, often the end of the archwire after an adjustment or bracket issue, is a frequent cause of cheek, tongue, or gum irritation and can lead to small sores if ignored.
For fast relief at home, wash your hands, then apply a small piece of warmed orthodontic wax over the sharp end to create a smooth barrier. You can also gently tuck the wire back with a clean finger or cotton swab if it’s accessible. Rinse with warm saltwater to soothe the area.
If the poking persists or wax isn’t enough, give us a call and we can guide you or schedule a quick adjustment.
Swollen Lips or Cheeks From Braces
Swelling, redness, or sores on the lips, inner cheeks, or gums often occur in the first 1–2 weeks as your mouth adapts to the brackets and wires. Friction is the main culprit (true allergies are rare).
Apply orthodontic wax over irritating spots, rinse frequently with warm saltwater, and use a wrapped ice pack externally for 10–15 minutes to reduce swelling. Stick to soft, non-acidic foods and consider an over-the-counter oral gel for comfort. Your mouth will typically toughen up over time.
Jaw Pain With Braces
Jaw soreness is common right after braces placement or tightening, as muscles adjust to new bite pressures. It usually peaks in the first 3–7 days.
Eat soft foods in smaller bites, apply ice initially then warm compresses, and take over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen. Avoid gum chewing or wide yawning during this period.
In some cases, treatment can highlight underlying TMJ issues (like clicking or limited opening). If pain is severe, lasts longer than a week, or includes headaches/ear pain, schedule an evaluation for personalized care.
Don’t Let Braces Problems Slow You Down – Contact Basil Orthodontics Today
Loose-feeling teeth, broken brackets, poking wires, irritated lips/cheeks, and jaw soreness are all manageable parts of the braces experience. At Basil Orthodontics in High Point, NC, Dr. Anthony Basil and our team are dedicated to making your journey comfortable and successful.
Call (336) 882-1111 today for a free consultation, to report an issue, or for same-day advice. Visit us at 2017 Eastchester Dr, Suite 107, High Point, NC 27265. We’re here to help you get that confident smile!