Emergency Info

There are very few true orthodontic emergencies, but we are always available to help you. If you are experiencing intense pain, please call us as soon as possible. We will do our best to schedule an appointment for you. 

Surprisingly, most orthodontic problems can be remedied at home. While you await your appointment, these guidelines will help you resolve minor problems. Please know that even if you alleviate the pain caused by your broken appliance, you still need a repair appointment.

_{Lost Separator}

Most patients lose a separator during their treatment. Do not worry about losing a separator, but please call our office to see if it needs to be replaced.

_{Sore Teeth/Discomfort with Orthodontic Treatment}

Right after you get your braces, and sometimes after you have an adjustment appointment, your teeth and mouth will feel sore. To alleviate the pain, you may take ibuprofen or any anti-inflammatory pain relief. You can also gargle with lukewarm saltwater (mix one teaspoon of salt with eight ounces of water).

_{Wire Irritations}

Try 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.

_{Loose Bracket}

First, call our practice to see if the bracket needs to be re-fitted. If you have a situation where you must cut the wire or slide a bracket off the wire, you may use fingernail clippers that have been washed and sterilized in alcohol. Please call our office the next business day to schedule a repair appointment.

_{Loose Wire}

If the wire is loose on the last tooth, try putting the wire back in place using tweezers that have been washed and sterilized in alcohol. If that does not work, try putting wax over the wire where it is poking you. If you have a situation where you must cut the wire, you may use fingernail clippers that have been washed and sterilized in alcohol. Cut the wire behind the last bracket in which it is secured.

_{Headgear Doesn't Fit}

If your headgear is causing pain, it's usually because it isn't being worn long enough. Please adhere to your orthodontist's instructions, and wear your headgear for the instructed amount of hours each day. If the facebow is bent, please call our practice for an appointment. Do not try to adjust it yourself.