What to Do in Cases of Discomfort
Call or text our office as soon as possible if you break or loosen any of your appliances. Please do not come directly to the office – by calling or texting us, you will allow us to create a time to see you. Even if you have a regular appointment scheduled, call us immediately to notify us if you need an appliance repaired.
Loose Brackets or Bands
Call or text our office immediately for advice if a bracket or wire is loosened. The bracket may need to be re-fitted as soon as possible. You may have a situation that requires cutting a wire or sliding a bracket off a wire at night or over the weekend. If you need to cut a wire in case of emergency, you may use fingernail clippers that have been washed and cleaned in alcohol. Please call our office the next business day, so that we may schedule an appointment for you. Most importantly, save the bracket and bring it with you so that we can sterilize it and put it back into place. Brackets are not disposable.
Wire Irritations
Sometimes discomfort caused by a wire on your braces can be resolved by 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 poking your gums or cheek, you can cut it with nail clippers or scissors that have been washed and cleaned in alcohol. If you cannot resolve the wire irritation, text a photo of your wire to our office so that we can set up a special appointment for you.
Discomfort with Orthodontic Treatment
During the first week of braces and after routine adjustments, you will likely feel some mild discomfort. You may take ibuprofen, acetaminophen or other non-aspirin pain relievers while you adjust to the new changes. A warm wash cloth or heating pad can reduce the soreness in your jaws.