FIRST AID FOR BRACES OR RETAINERS If a wire is poking you, place a small piece of wax  over it until you can get in for an appointment. If a bracket or band is loose and still attached to the arch wire, leave it in place call the office for an appointment.  If it becomes uncomfortable, cover with wax .If it comes completely out, bring it with you to your next appointment. Do not attempt to connect headgear or elastics to a loose band or bracket. If the arch wire comes out of a tube, try to place the wire back into the tube with tweezers. Place wax if uncomfortable and call for an appointment. If your teeth are sore after an orthodontic visit, take acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil) as normally recommended.  If a part of your braces breaks, save the piece and call to set up a repair visit. If a retainer breaks, do not try to repair it yourself. Call to have your orthodontist repair it. If you notice some small spaces developing between your teeth while you have braces on, don't panic! This is usually normal and expected as teeth move into different positions, particularly in the early stages of treatment. They will be closed eventually. If you experience any bleeding when brushing or flossing, continue to keep the area clean by brushing and flossing .