Emergencies

We are here for you

While there are very few true orthodontic emergencies, we are always available to you. If something breaks or you experience intense pain, call us as soon as possible. We will fit you in for an appointment. Even if you have a regular appointment scheduled, call immediately in an emergency.

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

Lost Separator

Most patients lose a separator. Don't worry and call our office to see if it needs to be replaced.

Sore Teeth or Discomfort

Right after you get your braces or after an adjustment, your teeth and mouth may feel sore. To alleviate the pain, you can take acetaminophen or other non-aspirin pain relievers. You can also gargle with lukewarm saltwater. A warm washcloth or heating pad may also reduce soreness.

Wire Irritations

Move the wire away from the irritated area with a cotton swab or eraser. If it won’t move, cover the end of it with a small piece of cotton or wax. If the wire is painful, you can cut it with nail clippers that have been washed and sterilized in alcohol.

Loose Bracket

Call our office to see when your bracket needs to be re-fitted. To cut the wire or slide a bracket off the wire, use nail clippers that have been washed and sterilized in alcohol. Call our office the next business day to schedule a repair appointment.

Loose Wire

Put the wire back in place using tweezers that have been washed and sterilized in alcohol. If that does not work, put wax over the wire where it is poking you. If you must cut the wire, use nail 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 causes pain, it's usually because it is not being worn as instructed. If the facebow is bent, call our office. Do not try to adjust it yourself.