Emergency Care

True orthodontic emergencies are very seldom, but when they do occur we are always available to you. As a general rule, you should call the office as soon as possible if you have an appliance problem that requires our care. We’ll be able to schedule an appointment to resolve the problem.

You may be surprised to learn that you can temporarily solve many problems yourself until we see you, or until you schedule an appointment with our office. When you call, try to identify what part is broken or out of place. Even if you do alleviate the discomfort yourself, it is still very important that you call our office to schedule a time to repair the problem. Allowing your appliance to remain damaged for an extended period of time may result in unfavorable tooth movement.

The following solutions may help you relieve your discomfort:

Poking Wire

Using a small spoon handle, push the poking wire down or place wax on it to alleviate the discomfort.

Loose Bracket or Band

If your bracket or band is still attached to the wire, you should leave it in place and put wax on it. Call for an appointment. If the bracket or band comes out entirely, wrap it in a tissue and bring it with you. Avoid eating hard foods and chewing gum.

Loose Wire

Using tweezers, try to place your wire back into place. If doing this and using wax does not help, as a last resort use a small fingernail clipper to clip the wire behind the last tooth to which it is securely fastened. If your discomfort continues, place wax on the area for protection, and call us.

Loose Appliance

If your appliance is poking you, place wax on the offending part of your appliance and call the office. If it can remain in place without discomfort, call for an early appointment.

Elastics Hurt

Surprisingly, if elastics are worn all the time, consistently, the discomfort will go away. Inconsistent wear is usually responsible for a problem of this sort.

General Soreness

When you get your braces on you may feel general soreness in your mouth, and teeth may be tender to biting pressures for three to five days. This can be relieved by rinsing your mouth with a warm saltwater mouthwash. Dissolve one teaspoonful of salt in 8 ounces of warm water, and rinse your mouth vigorously. If the tenderness remains, take whatever you normally take for headache or similar pain and call the office if there is no relief.

The lips, cheeks and tongue may also become irritated for one to two weeks as they become accustomed to the surface of the braces. You can put wax on the braces to lessen this discomfort, but call the office as well. A visit may be required.