Emergency

True orthodontic emergencies are relatively rare. But certain situations may arise that are bothersome. If your braces are causing abnormal pain or if something breaks, you should call our office. In most cases, we can address these issues over the telephone, or assist you in assessing if you require an emergency visit, we will set aside time for you.

General Soreness

When you get your braces or a new appliance, you may feel general soreness in your mouth, and your teeth may be tender to biting pressures for three to five days. We recommend you take ibuprofen or acetaminophen to alleviate the tenderness. (Advil or Tylenol).

Irritation

The lips, cheeks and tongue may also become irritated for one to two weeks as they toughen and become accustomed to the surface of the braces. Place orthodontic wax on parts that are causing abrasion for temporary relief. Keep your wax handy for the unexpected sore that can appear later on in treatment.

Broken Bracket/Band

A broken bracket is usually painless and may wait a few days before being repaired. However, please notify us as soon as possible to avoid disruptions or delays in your treatment. To stabilize it and prevent irritation you can apply wax on the bracket or band.

Poking wire

Apply orthodontic wax (soften it by rolling between your fingers) over the poking wire and contact our office. If you need to cut a poking wire at home, use a cleaned nail clipper disinfected with alcohol.

Retainers and retention wires

Broken or lost retainers must be repaired or replaced as soon as possible. Call us to be seen at the office.
If your clear retaining tray is broken into pieces, continue wearing the pieces like usual until we can see you again.
Loose or broken lingual retention wires should be repaired or replaced as soon as possible. Call the office, to schedule a visit. If your lingual wire falls off entirely, keep the wire and bring it with you for it may be reinstalled.