What to do in case of emergency
E-mail us at [email protected], if you have a loose wire, pokey wire, loose appliance, or anything that is hurting or painful. This is the quickest way to reach us. You can also leave us a message by phone for less emergent concerns.
Please call ahead before stopping by the office so that we can make sure we have time set aside for you to take care of your needs. This will avoid you having to wait for extended periods of time.
Loose brackets or bands
Let us know by phone or e-mail if a bracket or wire is loosened and if it is causing discomfort. The bracket may need to be re-fitted at some point. You may have a situation that requires cutting a wire or sliding a bracket off a wire at night or over the weekend which you may be able to do yourself. If you need to cut a wire in case of emergency, you may use clean fingernail or wire clippers. Feel free to remove the band or bracket if necessary.
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 amount of wax.. If you cannot resolve the wire irritation, Email us at [email protected] for an appointment. Feel free to remove the wire if necessary. Try to bring it in with you at the next appointment so we can see where the bends are.
Lost separators
Most patients lose a separator during their treatment. Do not worry about losing a separator, but call our office to see if it needs to be replaced.
Discomfort with orthodontic treatment
During the first week after your braces are in place and routine adjustments are complete, you will likely feel some discomfort. You may take Ibuprofen while you adjust to your new braces. A warm wash cloth or heating pad may reduce the soreness in your jaws. Appliances like expanders that cover the roof of the mouth may make eating difficult but you get used to it after several days.