Emergency Care

True orthodontic emergencies are uncommon. However, if an emergency arises we will be available to help you. Please call the office if you are experiencing severe discomfort or when you have an orthodontic appliance problem that you can not take care of yourself. Our staff will be able to schedule an appointment to resolve the problem as soon as possible!

You might be surprised to learn that you may be able to solve many simple problems yourself temporarily until you can get to our office. Call our office even if the discomfort has been relieved to schedule an appliance repair appointment. Allowing your appliance to remain damaged for an extended period may result in disruptions in your treatment plan.

General Soreness:

When you get your braces on, some degree of general soreness, usually lasting up to several days, is common. Irritation may be alleviated by using warm salt-water mouth rinses (one teaspoon of salt in 8 ounces of water). Sore areas may also be treated by applying a small amount of an over-the-counter topical anesthetic (Or a base of Ora-Gel) gel directly to the irritated area, applied with a q-tip. You may also take Tylenol for discomfort.

Poking Wire:

If a wire from your braces is sticking into your oral tissues, you can often push the wire aside with the eraser-end of a pencil or cotton swab. If that does not work, try putting wax over the wire where it is poking you. As a last resort, you may need to cut the wire with nail clippers, which have been cleaned with alcohol. Clip the wire behind the last tooth to which it is securely fastened. If the end of the wire is still sharp place wax on it.

View informaional videos on emergency care

Wax

Lost Separator:

Do not worry about losing a separator. Please call our office to see if it needs to be replaced.

Loose Bracket or Band:

If your bracket or band is still attached to the wire, you should leave it in place and put wax on it if needed for comfort. If any piece comes off, place it in an envelope and save it to bring to your next appointment. Call our office to schedule a repair appointment.

Broken Brackets