Orthodontic emergencies are rare, but we’re here to help if they happen. For severe pain or appliance issues you can’t handle, please contact us immediately to arrange for care. Often, you can manage minor issues temporarily. For instance, if a brace component is loose, secure it in a plastic bag to bring to your appointment. Use dental wax for poking wires or brackets, and if a wire shifts, carefully realign it with needle-nosed pliers.
Dealing with Discomfort:
After getting braces, it’s common to experience general soreness in your mouth or sensitivity when biting, typically lasting a few days. Stick to soft foods and rinse with a warm salt-water solution to ease soreness. Avoid using pain relievers like Aspirin or Ibuprofen frequently as they can slow down tooth movement. If braces irritate your lips, cheeks, or tongue, applying dental wax can offer relief.
Specific Appliance Issues:
Headgear
Discomfort might mean you’re not wearing it correctly. Follow your orthodontist’s instructions and wear it for the prescribed hours.
Loose appliance
Apply wax to any part of the appliance causing irritation.
Loose bracket
If the bracket or band is still attached, apply wax for comfort. If it can be removed, save it and bring it to us.
Loose wire
Attempt to reposition it with tweezers or secure it with dental floss. If uncomfortable, trim the wire carefully with nail clippers and cover the end with wax.
Poking wire
Use a pencil eraser to push the wire flat against your tooth or cover it with wax.
Please call our office to fix any issues, as delaying repairs might disrupt your treatment plan.