Emergency Care
If a patient has been in a traumatic accident, you should be seen by your family dentist immediately. Please call our office directly after seeing your family dentist.
We are happy to assist you at any time, but here are some helpful hints to remedy some common problems you may encounter.
Damaged Appliances
Even the most careful patient may still damage an appliance. If anything loosens or breaks, call our office right away. Explain the problem to the receptionist, and she will schedule an appointment for you. If we are out of the office, please leave a message. We will return your call as soon as possible. Please keep any of the damaged pieces.
Irritation
It is normal for your cheeks and lips to be irritated, especially when you first receive your braces or a new appliance. You can place wax over the bracket that is causing irritation. Using a warm salt water rinse will also help you heal the irritated areas.
Loose Band or Bracket
Anytime you have a loose band or bracket, please call our office to notify us. If the band or bracket is uncomfortable you can place wax on it and call our office to schedule an appropriate time to re-bond the bracket.
Loose/Pokey Wire
Try and place the wire back into your bracket with tweezers. If that is not possible, clip the wire with sanitized fingernail clippers behind the last tooth to which it is securely fastened. If there is discomfort, wax can be placed to relieve irritation. The same steps can be made for a pokey wire.
Lost Elastic Tie
If it is not uncomfortable, you can notify us at your next appointment. If there is discomfort, you can call us to schedule an appointment to have it replaced.
Soreness
Use warm salt water rinses and/or pain medication such as Tylenol, Acetaminophen or Ibuprofen. It is normal for teeth to be sore for a few days after each adjustment. The gums or cheeks should not be swollen.