Emergency Care
True orthodontic emergencies are rare, but when they occur we are available to you. Learn how to handle common issues at home.
When to Call Us
As a general rule, call our office when you experience severe pain or have a painful appliance problem you can't take care of yourself.
DIY Fixes
You may be able to solve many problems yourself temporarily until you can get to our office.
- Put loose pieces in an envelope
- Use wax on poking wires
- Reposition wires with tweezers
Don't Wait Too Long
After alleviating your discomfort, it's very important that you still call our office as soon as possible.
Allowing your appliance to remain damaged may result in disruptions to your treatment plan.
Common Issues & Solutions
Learn how to temporarily address common orthodontic issues at home until you can visit our office.
General Soreness
When you get your braces on, you may feel general soreness in your mouth, and teeth may be tender to biting pressures for 3-5 days.
What to do
Stick to a soft diet until teeth are no longer tender Rinse with warm salt water (1 tsp salt in 8 oz warm water) Take Acetaminophen (Tylenol) for pain relief Use wax on braces to reduce lip/cheek irritation
Remember to call our office after temporary fixes to schedule a proper repair.
Headgear Issues
Discomfort is often caused by not wearing the headgear as instructed. The headgear should hurt less the more it's worn.
What to do
Follow your orthodontist's wearing instructions Call the office if the facebow (metal piece) is bent Ensure you get in the prescribed number of hours Discomfort decreases with consistent wear
Remember to call our office after temporary fixes to schedule a proper repair.
Loose Appliance
If your appliance is poking you, there are simple steps you can take for temporary relief.
What to do
Place wax on the offending part Call the office to schedule a repair appointment Avoid eating hard or sticky foods
Remember to call our office after temporary fixes to schedule a proper repair.
Loose Bracket
If your bracket or band is still attached to the wire, leave it in place. If it can be easily removed, save it for your next appointment.
What to do
Leave attached brackets in place Put wax on it if needed for comfort Save removed brackets in an envelope Bring saved pieces to your next appointment
Remember to call our office after temporary fixes to schedule a proper repair.
Loose Wire
Using tweezers or needle-nosed pliers, try to put your wire back into place. You can use floss to tie the wire in place if needed.
What to do
Try to reposition wire with tweezers or pliers Tie floss around the bracket to hold wire Cover sharp ends with wax As a last resort, clip wire behind the last secure tooth
Remember to call our office after temporary fixes to schedule a proper repair.
Poking Wire
A wire that's poking can be uncomfortable but is usually easy to fix temporarily at home.
What to do
Use a pencil eraser to push the wire down Place wax on the poking area Call the office if discomfort continues
Remember to call our office after temporary fixes to schedule a proper repair.
Quick Tips
Keep these handy tips in mind for common situations.
Wax is Your Friend
Put soft wax on any piece that's sticking out or poking you.
Save Loose Pieces
Put loose pieces in an envelope or container and bring them to your appointment.
Always Call
Even after a temporary fix, call to schedule a proper repair.
Need help now? We're here for you.