Emergency Care
True orthodontic emergencies, while they are rare, we are always prepared to assist you in an orthodontic emergency. If you experience severe pain or a problem with your appliance that you can’t manage on your own, please call our office. We will schedule an appointment to resolve the issue as soon as possible.
Self-Care for Minor Issues
You may be surprised that many orthodontic problems can be temporarily resolved at home until you visit our office. If there is a loose piece you can safely remove, keep it in a plastic bag or envelope, and bring it to your next appointment.
Remember, it’s important to contact our office for an appointment even after alleviating your discomfort, as letting your appliance remain damaged could affect your treatment plan.
Dealing with General Soreness
After getting braces, it’s normal to experience general soreness in your mouth and tenderness when biting for three to five days. During this period, stick to a soft diet. Rinsing your mouth with warm salt water can help soothe irritated gums and sore spots. For a more pleasant taste, you might try the Healthy Gums Rinse by The Natural Dentist.
If the discomfort is severe, Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is recommended for relief. It’s best to avoid Aspirin, Ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil), and Naproxen Sodium as they can slow down tooth movement.
Lips, cheeks, and tongue may also become irritated for a week or two as they adjust to the braces. Wax can be applied to the braces to lessen this irritation, and we can show you the best way to do this.
Headgear Instructions
If you experience discomfort from wearing headgear, it’s often due to not following the prescribed usage instructions. Please refer to the guidelines provided by your orthodontist. If the facebow (metal piece) is bent, call our office for help. Regular use of the headgear will decrease discomfort over time.
What to Do with a Loose Appliance or Bracket
If your appliance is poking you, apply wax to the bothersome part for relief. Should a bracket or band still be attached to the wire but become loose, leave it in place and use wax if needed. If you can remove the bracket or band easily, place it in an envelope and bring it to your next appointment.
Managing a Loose or Poking Wire
Use a pair of tweezers or needle-nosed pliers to put a loose wire back into place. If covering the end with wax doesn’t help, and the wire is uncomfortably poking you, you can use a small fingernail clipper to carefully clip the wire behind the last tooth it is securely fastened to. Make sure to apply wax to any sharp ends.
If you have any concerns or need to schedule an appointment for adjustments or repairs, please don’t hesitate to contact our office. Addressing orthodontic issues promptly is crucial for the success and comfort of your treatment.
