Orthodontic emergencies can occasionally occur and although they may be a little upsetting,
they are usually fairly simple to treat.
they are usually fairly simple to treat.
Most orthodontic emergencies can be remedied at home. However, if you have a situation you cannot resolve on your own, call us so we can fit you in for a repair appointment. In the meantime, see below for tips that can help resolve minor problems you may encounter during your orthodontic treatment.
If your teeth are sore after a visit
You may need to take an anti-inflammatory (Nurofen). You may also like to eat softer foods for the first couple of days after your visit.
If your braces cause irritation
Try moving the wire away from the irritated area with a cotton swab or eraser on the end of a pencil. If the wire will not move, try covering the end of it with a small amount of wax or (sugar-free) chewing gum.
If a bracket, wire or appliance becomes loose (Expander appliances, holding appliances, bonded wires)
Please call our office to schedule a repair appointment. Wax can be used in the meantime to aid comfort and to temporarily secure the loose appliance.
If a separator falls out
Call the office to see if it needs to be replaced. It is common for separators to fall out - this usually means that enough space has been made. This is not an emergency, but if in doubt or your appointment is more than a few days away please feel free to call.
If your retainer is lost or broken
Call the office to arrange an appointment for new impressions and a replacement retainer as soon as possible in order to avoid undue tooth shift.
If you have an accident or trauma to your teeth or jaw
Generally, if braces are in place these protect the teeth; however, the lips may be cut by the brackets. Advice should be obtained from your general dentist as soon as possible. Please contact the practice to let us know your situation, or call the after hours answering service for further advice if necessary.
If your teeth are sore after a visit
You may need to take an anti-inflammatory (Nurofen). You may also like to eat softer foods for the first couple of days after your visit.
If your braces cause irritation
Try moving the wire away from the irritated area with a cotton swab or eraser on the end of a pencil. If the wire will not move, try covering the end of it with a small amount of wax or (sugar-free) chewing gum.
If a bracket, wire or appliance becomes loose (Expander appliances, holding appliances, bonded wires)
Please call our office to schedule a repair appointment. Wax can be used in the meantime to aid comfort and to temporarily secure the loose appliance.
If a separator falls out
Call the office to see if it needs to be replaced. It is common for separators to fall out - this usually means that enough space has been made. This is not an emergency, but if in doubt or your appointment is more than a few days away please feel free to call.
If your retainer is lost or broken
Call the office to arrange an appointment for new impressions and a replacement retainer as soon as possible in order to avoid undue tooth shift.
If you have an accident or trauma to your teeth or jaw
Generally, if braces are in place these protect the teeth; however, the lips may be cut by the brackets. Advice should be obtained from your general dentist as soon as possible. Please contact the practice to let us know your situation, or call the after hours answering service for further advice if necessary.
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