There are very few true orthodontic emergencies, but we are always available to help you. If you have a broken appliance or are experiencing intense pain, please call us as soon as possible. We will do our best to fit you into the schedule for an appointment. Even if you have a regular appointment scheduled, call immediately to notify us that you need an appliance repaired.
Surprisingly, most orthodontic problems can be remedied at home. While you await your appointment, these guidelines will help you resolve minor problems. Please know that even if you alleviate the pain caused by your broken appliance, you still need a repair appointment.
orthodontic
lost
separator
Most patients lose a separator during their treatment. Do not worry about losing a separator, but please call our office to see if it needs to be replaced.
sore teeth/discomfort with
orthodontic treatment
Right after you get your braces, and sometimes after you have an adjustment appointment, your teeth and mouth will feel sore. To alleviate the pain, you may take acetaminophen or other non-aspirin pain relievers while you adjust to your new braces. You can also gargle lukewarm salt water, which is a mixture of one teaspoon of salt dissolved in eight ounces of water. A warmwash cloth or a heating pad may also reduce the soreness in your jaws.
wire
irritations
To manage mouth irritation caused by an orthodontic wire, you can try several methods. First, applying orthodontic wax to the irritating area can create a barrier between the wire and the soft tissues of the mouth, reducing discomfort. Rinsing with warm saltwater can help alleviate inflammation and promote healing. Additionally, gently adjusting the wire’s position with a clean, unused pencil eraser can provide temporary relief until a professional adjustment can be made by the orthodontist. Consistent oral hygiene practices, such as brushing and flossing gently, can also prevent further irritation.
loose
bracket
First, call our office to see if the bracket needs to be re-fitted. If you have a situation where you must cut the wire or slide a bracket off the wire, you may use fingernail clippers that have been washed and sterilized in alcohol. Please call our office the next business day to schedule a repair appointment.
loose
wire
Try putting the wire back in place using tweezers that have been washed and sterilized in alcohol. If that does not work, try putting wax over the wire where it is poking you. If you have a situation where you must cut the wire, you may use fingernail clippers that have been washed and sterilized in alcohol. Cut the wire behind the last bracket in which it is secured.
headgear
doesn’t fit
If your headgear is causing pain, it’s usually because it isn’t being worn long enough. Please adhere to your orthodontist’s instructions, and wear your headgear for the instructed amount of hours each day. If the facebow is bent, please call our office for an appointment. Do not try to adjust it yourself.
