When should I call the orthodontist after getting metal braces?

Call your orthodontist you think one of the brackets, elastics, or wires on your metal braces is broken. These wire and brackets can break if you eat sticky or hard foods, like caramel or crusty bread. If a wire or bracket is poking you, and you can’t bend the wire back so that it isn’t sharp, call your orthodontist. In the meantime, cover the sharp wire with wax available from your dentist or a drugstore. Call your doctor if a bracket looks uneven.

Expect to have some soreness for a few days after each adjustment. It is not necessary to call the orthodontist about such soreness.

If you are having your teeth moved for any length of time, chances are you are going to have an orthodontic emergency. These emergencies can be in the form of trauma to the mouth, loose braces or wires, teeth moving where they shouldn't, or spaces appearing where weren't before. If you feel that there is something going on with your teeth during treatment that shouldn't be, give your orthodontist a call. It is better to be safe than sorry!