True orthodontic emergencies are very rare, but we’re here for you whenever they occur. If you experience severe pain or have a painful issue with your braces that you can’t handle yourself, please call our office. We will prioritize scheduling an appointment to resolve the problem and ensure your comfort.
You might be surprised to learn that you can often temporarily address many problems on your own until you can see us for an emergency visit. However, even if you find relief, it’s crucial to still contact our office promptly to arrange a time for us to repair the issue. Delaying the repair of a damaged appliance can lead to unwanted side effects and unnecessarily prolong your overall treatment.
Here are some specific situations and what you can do:
If Your Teeth Are Sore After a Visit:
It’s common to experience discomfort for the first 3 to 5 days due to the new pressure on your teeth. Taking ibuprofen or a similar pain reliever can help. If your lips, cheeks, or tongue become irritated from the braces, applying wax or silicone can provide relief. We will demonstrate how to use it.
If Food Becomes Stuck Between Your Teeth:
Use dental floss or a proxa brush to dislodge the food and maintain oral hygiene.
If a Wire Causes Irritation:
Using a mirror, gently push the wire away from the irritated area using the eraser end of a pencil, the handle of a spoon, or a cotton swab. Avoid poking with your finger as it may worsen the situation. If you can’t adjust the wire, cover the end with wax or silicone provided by us or available at a drugstore. Then, reach out to us to schedule an appointment.
If the Main Wire Has Come out of the Brace or Tube:
Attempt to reinsert the wire using needle-nose pliers or tweezers. If the wire is poking or stabbing you, place a small piece of wax over the area for temporary relief. Call us immediately to arrange an appointment.
If You Develop a Sore Spot or a Canker Sore:
Apply a small amount of wax or silicone to the source of irritation to cushion the area as it heals. Rinsing with warm salt water can also help. Refer to our “Canker sore” handout provided during the placement of your initial braces. If you misplaced it, we can provide a copy.
If a Bracket Comes Loose from a Tooth:
Contact our office promptly to schedule an emergency visit. Even if you have an upcoming appointment, repairs of this nature often require additional time and preparation.
If You Notice Small Spaces Developing Between Your Teeth:
Don’t panic; this is typically normal as your teeth adjust and move into different positions during treatment. The spaces will eventually close.
If Your Teeth Feel Loose:
This is expected throughout treatment. It’s a natural part of the process as your teeth need to loosen before they can be properly aligned. Eventually, they will become rigid and stabilize in their corrected positions.
If a Part of Your Braces or Your Retainer Breaks:
Keep the broken pieces and contact us to schedule a repair visit as soon as possible.
If a Separator Comes Out:
Separators are designed to create space between your molars for fitting bands. If a separator falls out, contact our office to determine if you need a replacement. Refer to our “Separators” handout provided during the separator insertion appointment.
If You Experience Trauma to the Mouth:
Contact your general dentist immediately for immediate care. After seeing your family dentist, please call our office to inform us of any dislodged or displaced teeth or damage to your orthodontic appliances. If you can’t reach your family dentist, we are available to assist you. Follow the instructions on our message machine to reach us via our pager if our office is closed.
If You Have Difficulty with Your Rubber Bands:
Consult our “Elastics” handout and “how to wear” diagram given during your last appointment for detailed instructions on the rubber band protocol. Change your rubber bands after every meal, as they lose elasticity. If your supply is running low, contact our office, and we will mail you additional bands. If your elastics break frequently, or if a wire or band becomes loose or a hook breaks off, please call our office immediately.
Remember, we are here to support you throughout your orthodontic journey, so don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any concerns or questions.
