Kestrel Orthodontics Call

Broken brackets and poking wires

A loose bracket or a poking wire is uncomfortable but rarely urgent. Most can wait for the morning.

A small jar of white wax, a glass of water and a toothbrush on a pale bathroom counter by a window.

What to do at home

  • Cover a sharp wire or bracket with orthodontic wax.
  • Rinse with warm salt water if the cheek is sore.
  • Keep any piece that comes off and bring it with you.
  • Call us when we open.

When it is an emergency

For a mouth or face injury, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. Call us after you have been seen.

The repair visit

A gloved hand placing a small instrument on a clean orthodontic tray

Most repairs take a short visit. We fit them into the next day when we can.

Questions about broken brackets and poking wires

Should I cut a poking wire myself?

Call us first. Wax usually keeps you comfortable until we can trim it.

Does a loose bracket slow treatment?

It can, if it stays loose for weeks. Call us so we can fix it at the next open slot.

Reviewed by Dr. Desmond Breckett, DMD, MS, October 7, 2026