Here is some helpful orthodontic emergency information to remedy some of the problems you may encounter until our office can see you.
Loose Bracket, Wire, or Band
Don’t be alarmed if something comes loose. This happens occasionally. Most importantly, don’t jump to any conclusions! Just because something is loose or broken doesn’t mean it will hurt and is an “emergency.” If a wire protrudes and is irritating, use a blunt instrument (like the eraser end of a pencil) and gently push the irritating wire out of the way. Alternatively, you may use a clean pair of nail clippers or any other safe cutting instrument to cut any sharp of poking wires. It is virtually never a problem to remove anything that has become loose and uncomfortable. If any piece comes off entirely, please save it and bring it with you to the office so that we know what it was that happened.
Remember, if something comes loose, it is not an emergency. However, please call our office so that we may best assess the situation and advise accordingly. Although there are instances when we would recommend making a special repair appointment, many repairs can be taken care of by adding time to the next scheduled appointment.
Poking | Irritating Wire
If a wire protrudes and is irritating, use a blunt instrument (like the eraser end of a pencil) and gently push the irritating wire out of the way. Alternatively, wax may be placed over any sharp or poking wires. If it cannot be bent away or covered, simply cut it with a nail clipper! It is always ok to cut something that is protruding or poking. Don’t worry–we’ll can easily replace whatever you remove at a next visit.
Discomfort
When you get your braces on, you may feel some general soreness in your mouth. It is normal for your teeth to be tender to biting pressures for three to five days. It is also normal for your cheeks or tongue to be irritated at the beginning. To feel better, you may rinse your mouth with a warm salt water mouth-rinse. Dissolve one teaspoonful of salt in 8 ounces of warm water, and rinse your mouth a few times. If the tenderness is more uncomfortable, take whatever you would normally take for a headache or similar pain.
Trauma
In case of any accident involving the face, check your mouth and the appliances along with the rest of you. If teeth are loosened or any have been displaced or fallen out, contact your dentist immediately. After you contact your dentist, please contact us to inform us of what has happened and so that we may coordinate future care with your dentist.
