If a Wire is Causing Irritation

Try pushing the wire away from the area being irritated using the eraser end of a pencil or a Q-Tip. If the wire cannot be tucked in, cover the end of the wire with a small piece of wax, a cotton ball, or a piece of sugarless gum, until you can see your orthodontist for a adjustment. Cutting the wire should only be done as a last resort if professional help is unavailable.

Michael Minnich, DDS, MS, is an orthodontist providing dental procedures such as braces and Invisalign treatment in California. Michael Minnich, DDS, MS, is a licensed orthodontist in the State of California.