Emergency Care
True orthodontic emergency includes unbearable pain and knocked-off teeth. Although true emergencies are rare, if it happens, contact our office immediately to schedule an emergency appointment with our orthodontists.
During the entire course of your orthodontic treatment, you may experience situations that you think need an emergency appointment but can be resolved easily at home.
Discomfort and soreness
During the first few days after your braces installation and 3-5 days after your tightening appointments, you may feel some discomfort and soreness as your teeth start to move. It is entirely normal and should go away after a few days. If it is unbearable for you, take any OTC pain reliever, such as Tylenol, to get some relief.
Mouth ulcers and poking wires
Your lips, cheeks, and mouth may become irritated with the metal components of your braces, which can cause mouth ulcers. If it does, roll a small piece of orthodontic wax over the part that irritates your soft tissues.
In addition, as your teeth move, they can cause archwires to extend – and you may feel wires poking at the back. If this happens, roll a small orthodontic wax over the wire. Please do not do DIY solutions such as cutting it with a clipper or pushing it with an eraser.
Loose bracket
If a bracket pops out and is still attached to the archwire, such as in self-ligating braces, try stabilizing the bracket by placing a ball of orthodontic wax and pushing it to the tooth. If a bracket pops out of the mouth, keep it in a container and bring it to your next office visit for reattachment.
