Emergency Orthodontics

General soreness is a common issue when patients first get braces. This can last for three to five days. Relieve any sensitivity by rinsing your mouth with a warm saltwater solution. Orabase on the effected area may also help. You may also take an over-the-counter pain reliever, such as aspirin.

As your lips, cheeks and tongue become accustomed to braces, you may experience some irritation. Orthodontic wax can help with this.

If you wear headgear, be sure you follow all instructions from your orthodontist. If the facebow becomes bent, call our office for help. The headgear will hurt less the longer you wear it, so be sure you are following the prescribed hours of wear.

For loose appliances or brackets, place wax on the offending area. Schedule an appointment with our office to correct it.

If your bracket or band is still attached to the wire, you should leave it in place and put wax on it. If the wire comes out entirely, wrap the bracket with a tissue.

If you experience a loose wire, you can use tweezers to try to put the wire back in place. If this doesn’t work and wax doesn’t keep the wire from hurting your mouth, fingernail clippers can be used to clip the wire behind the last tooth to which it is securely fastened. Call our office right away to schedule an appointment to get a new wire.

If a wire is poking the inside of your mouth, a pencil eraser can be used to poke the wire down. Wax can be used to alleviate discomfort.