True orthodontic emergencies are very rare, but when they do occur we are always available to you. As a general rule, you should call the office when you experience severe pain or when you have a painful appliance problem that you are unable to take care of yourself.
You might be surprised to learn that you may be able to temporarily solve many issues yourself until you schedule an appointment with our office.
Poking Wire
Using a pencil eraser, push the poking wire down. You can also try to dry the area and place wax to alleviate the discomfort.
Loose Bracket or Band
If your bracket or band is still attached to the wire, you should leave in place and put wax on it. However, if the bracket or band has come completely out, save in a baggie and bring to your next scheduled appointment.
Loose Wire
Using a tweezer, try to put your wire back into place. If doing this and using wax doesn’t help you can use a small fingernail clipper to clip the wire behind the last tooth to which it is securely fastened. If the discomfort continues, place wax on it.
Loose Appliance
If your appliance is poking you, place wax on the part of the appliance that is bothering you. If the appliance is loose please contact our office as soon as possible.
General Soreness
When you get your braces on, you may feel some general soreness in mouth. Your teeth may also be tender to biting pressure for three to five days. This soreness can be relieved with a warm saltwater mouthrinse. Dissolve one teaspoon of salt to eight ounces of warm water. Rinse mouth vigorously. Placing Brace Relief to the affected area may also help. A tube of Brace Relief is given to you on the day your braces are placed. Similar products (ie. Orabase or Orajel) can be found a your local pharmacy. If the tenderness is severe, take whatever over the counter medication used for a headache or similar pain.
The lips, cheeks and tongue may also become irritated for several days. They will toughen as they become accustomed to the surface of the braces. You can place wax on the braces to lessen this discomfort.