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.
Lost Separator
Patients often lose a separator at the beginning of treatment. If you lose a separator, it may not be a problem, but please call our office to see if it needs to be replaced.
Sore Teeth/Discomfort with Orthodontic Treatment
Right after you first get your braces, and sometimes after an adjustment, your teeth and mouth may feel sore. Over the counter Acetaminophen or Ibuprofen pain relievers should be sufficient to reduce any discomfort while you adjust to your new braces. Gargling lukewarm saltwater or using a warm wash cloth or a heating pad may also reduce the soreness in your jaws.
Wire Irritations
If you experience a minor poke from a wire, try moving the wire away from the irritated area with a cotton swab or pencil eraser. If the wire will not move, try covering the end of it with a small piece of cotton or a small amount of wax. If the wire is painful, you can cut it with nail clippers or scissors that have been washed and sterilized in alcohol.
Loose Bracket
For any loose bracket or band, try to temporarily secure it in a safe position. If you have a situation where you must cut the wire or slide a bracket off the wire, 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
If one of your arch wires comes loose, try to replace the wire 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, 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 discomfort, it may need to be adjusted. Headgear may also cause soreness if worn only in short, interrupted periods of time. 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.