What to do in case of emergency
Call our office as soon as possible if you break or loosen any of your appliances. Please do not come directly to the office – by calling us, you will allow us to create a time to see you. Even if you have a regular appointment scheduled, call ahead of time to let us know you may need a repair.
Loose brackets or bands
A loose or broken band or bracket may need to be re-fit or replaced. You may have a situation that requires cutting a wire or sliding a bracket off a wire at night or over the weekend. If you need to cut a wire in case of emergency, you may use fingernail clippers that have been washed and sterilized in alcohol. Please call us during office hours so we may advise you if a repair appointment should be scheduled.
Wire irritations
Sometimes discomfort caused by a wire on your braces can be resolved by moving the wire away from the irritated 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 amount of wax. If the wire is painful, you can cut it with nail clippers or scissors that have been washed and sterilized in alcohol. If you cannot resolve the wire irritation, call our office for an appointment.
Lost separators
If a separator comes out, even on the day of your appointment, please follow the instructions you were given to replace it. If you have any questions, please call our office.
Discomfort with orthodontic treatment
During the first week after your braces are in place and routine adjustments are complete, you may feel some tenderness, soreness, or discomfort. You may take acetaminophen or other non-aspirin pain relievers while you adjust to your new braces. A warm wash cloth or heating pad may reduce the soreness in your jaws.