True orthodontic emergencies are rare, but if one comes up, WE ARE HERE FOR YOU!
Call our office if you're in severe pain, and we'll schedule an appointment to take care of it.
You might be surprised how many issues you can ease yourself until you get to our office. We've shared a few tips below.
If something is broken, schedule a repair appointment even if you're not in pain. Leaving an appliance damaged for too long can set back your treatment plan.
Salt water rinses
Rinsing with a warm salt-water mouthwash can soothe irritated gums and sore spots. Dissolve one teaspoon of salt in eight ounces of warm water and rinse vigorously.
Pain Medication
If the tenderness is severe, take Acetaminophen (Tylenol) or Ibuprofen as directed.
Wax
Your lips, cheeks, and tongue may feel irritated for a week or two as they get used to the surface of your braces. A little wax on the braces helps.
Loose Teeth
If your teeth start to feel a little loose, don't worry, that's normal! Once they've moved into their new positions, they'll firm right back up.
Loose bracket
If your bracket or band is still attached to the wire, leave it in place and add wax for comfort if you need it. If it comes off easily, pop it in an envelope and bring it to your next appointment.
Loose wire
Using tweezers or needle-nosed pliers, gently try to guide the wire back into place. If you can't get it comfortable and wax doesn't help, use a small fingernail clipper to snip the wire behind the last securely attached brace. If the end still feels sharp, cover it with wax.
Missing color tie or steel tie
If a color tie or steel tie goes missing, a small piece of floss works in a pinch to hold the wire in place.
Poking wire
Using a pencil eraser, push the poking wire down, or cover it with wax so it's no longer poking you.
