Occasionally, the wire may shift and irritate the mouth. Use a cotton swab or the eraser end of a pencil to push the wire back so it is pressed against the teeth. If the wire cannot be returned to a comfortable position, cover it with orthodontic wax. If the situation becomes very uncomfortable and you cannot get to your orthodontist in a short time, you can cut it. To avoid the possibility of swallowing the cut piece, cover it with a tissue or a gauze. Take a nail clipper and cut off the protruding part. Orthodontic wax may still be needed to relieve the irritated area.