True orthodontic emergencies are rare, but we are always here to help when they arise. If you’re experiencing severe pain or have an appliance issue that you can’t resolve yourself, don’t hesitate to contact us. We will arrange an appointment to resolve the issue promptly. For emergencies, please call us at 425-775-3564
Common Orthodontic Problems and Solutions
While emergencies are rare, many common issues can be temporarily managed until you can get to our office:
Loose Appliance
If a part of your appliance becomes loose, you can often remove it and store it in a plastic bag or envelope to bring to your next appointment. If it’s causing discomfort, apply soft wax to the loose part for relief.
Poking Brackets or Wires
If your braces are causing irritation, cover the poking part with wax. For a wire that has slid out of place, you can use needle-nosed pliers to gently guide it back into its correct position, ensuring it sits properly in the tube of your back tooth.
Loose Bracket or Band
If a bracket or band is still attached to the wire, leave it in place and apply wax to alleviate any discomfort. If it’s easy to remove, keep the bracket or band and bring it to your next appointment.
Loose Wire
If your wire has come loose, use tweezers or pliers to reposition it. If necessary, you can tie the wire in place with floss, or as a last resort, carefully clip the wire behind the last tooth it’s attached to using small nail clippers. If the end of the wire is sharp, cover it with wax for comfort.
Poking Wire
For a wire that’s poking you, use a pencil eraser to push it down, or place wax over the sharp end to prevent irritation.
Dealing with General Soreness
When your braces are first placed, it’s normal to experience general soreness and tenderness in your mouth for the first few days. To manage this:
- Stick to a soft diet until you’re able to chew comfortably.
- To soothe sore spots and irritated gums, rinse your mouth with a warm saltwater solution (one teaspoon of salt in eight ounces of warm water).
- For pain relief, take over-the-counter medication like Acetaminophen (Tylenol), which won’t affect the movement of your teeth. Avoid using aspirin, Ibuprofen, or Naproxen frequently, as they can slow down the tooth movement.
As your mouth adjusts, your lips, cheeks, and tongue may become irritated for up to two weeks. You can apply wax to the brackets to relieve any discomfort, and we will show you how to do this!
Remember: If you’re experiencing discomfort or your appliance isn’t functioning properly, always reach out to our office. We’re here to help you get back on track to a healthy, beautiful smile!
