Relief for Common Braces Issues | Short Pump Orthodontist

Horsey OrthodonticsAugust 15, 2022

Braces are a safe, effective way to correct the alignment of your teeth. For some orthodontic patients, minor irritation or other issues can occur. For your reference, we’ve compiled a guide to understanding how to best handle a few issues you might experience.

Common Braces Issues

I Am Experiencing Discomfort with My Braces

Minor discomfort for the first few days after placement or adjustment is normal. We advise sticking to a diet of soft, easy-to-chew foods. You may find it helpful to rinse your mouth with warm salt water. If discomfort continues beyond the first week, contact our Orthodontist Midlothian office for guidance.

Food Is Caught Between My Teeth

It may take some time to adjust to eating with your braces. If food gets caught between your teeth, try using floss. Creating a small knot in the floss might make it more effective at catching the lodged piece of food. Small toothbrushes or interdental cleaners may also be an effective way to clean out the gaps between your teeth and in brackets. A toothpick may also work, but use extra caution when working around the wires of your braces.

My Braces Are Irritating My Mouth

Wires and brackets can rub against your lips or inner cheeks causing discomfort. In these instances, use non-medicinal relief wax to cover the problematic area. This can make eating and talking more comfortable. The wax is harmless if accidentally swallowed.

A Wire Is Sticking Out

Though not common, wires can shift and protrude into your mouth. Attempt to push the wire back into place against your teeth using a cotton swab or even a clean pencil eraser. Make sure to let us know about the issue during your next visit.

A Bracket, Wire, or Band is Loose

Any loosening of your braces should be examined by our orthodontic team. Loosening of the appliance may occur from eating hard, crunchy foods or from playing contact sports. Your best defenses are avoiding troublesome foods and wearing a mouthguard if you are playing sports. If any part of your braces is removed, please save it and bring it with you to our Richmond, VA Orthodontist office.

Adjusting to braces can take some time. Always have non-medicinal relief wax on hand in case your braces become an irritant. If your braces are loose or parts are falling off, please contact us immediately. The best way to keep your braces secure is to avoid sticky, hard, and crunchy foods. Don’t forget to brush thoroughly after each meal to clean out any food particles that may have become lodged between your teeth.

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   Horsey Orthodontics
   1023 Google reviews 
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   Tasha Nabi 
 10 September 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Very professional kind and courteous. Love the results.
  
 
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   Andrea Balch 
 10 September 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. My 7, now 8 year old, had an expander to help make room for her teeth to come in, and braces to straighten everything out. She just got everything off and her teeth look amazing. She had a great experience and we wouldn’t hesitate to use them again if she needs a second round later. Thanks!!
  
 
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   Tyrina Bridges 
 10 September 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. They were patient and informal to my daughter. Dentist offices can be scary and they made it so warm and welcoming
  
 
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   Sopheap Chheang 
 10 September 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Love it
  
 
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   Alecia price 
 10 September 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. This is our first time here to Horsey Orthodontics and the service was amazing!!! My daughter enjoyed her service, everyone was very professional, made us feel comfortable. Dr. Smith and Hanah was amazing and we’re so happy we came here.
  
 
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   Maketa Washington 
 10 September 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Dr. Horsey and his staff is awesome...Great customer service and very knowledgeable.
  
 
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   Winter Washington 
 10 September 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I like being here because I like to get my braces done
  
 
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   Somaya Musawer 
 10 September 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. +0
They helped me straighten my lower teeth, and helped me whiten it more than it was before.  I personally would recommend this place and I loved the braces I have and my power chains. They don’t tighten it that much and it’s a perfect amount to eat and it doesn’t hurt. Thank you so much!
  
 
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   Lindsay Blackman 
 10 September 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Front desk was very professional and polite. Ari did a great job!
  
 
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   Carrie Thornton 
 10 September 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. +0
Great experience! Wouldn’t trust anyone else for braces! 2 of kids have been here and the experience is always professional and great!
  
 
 
  
 
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