What to do in case of emergency

There are very few true orthodontic emergencies. Most problems can be remedied at home. However, if you have a situation that you can not resolve on your own, call us as soon as possible, so we can fit you in an emergency appointment. In the meantime, this suggestion can help resolve minor problems you may encounter during your orthodontic treatment.

Sore teeth

If your teeth are sore after a visit, you may take acetaminophen or other non-aspirin pain relievers while you adjust to your new braces. A warm wash cloth, heating pad or warm salt water rinses may reduce the soreness in your jaws.

Wire irritation

If your braces cause irritation, try moving away from the irritation area with a cotton swab or eraser. If the wire will not move, try covering the end of it with a small piece of cotton or a small piece 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

If the main wire or a bracket comes loose, first call our office to see if the bracket needs to be re-fitted. If you have a situation 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 on the next business day to schedule a repair appointment.

Lost separator

If a separator comes out, call our office to see if it needs to be replaced. Some patients may lose a separator during treatment, which is common.