While true orthodontic emergencies are rare, we want you to feel prepared for any situation. If you ever experience severe pain or have a problem with your appliance that you can’t manage, please call our office right away. For many common issues, however, you can find a simple temporary solution at home.
This guide will help you manage the most common situations. Remember, even if you find a temporary fix, it’s always a good idea to call us to let us know what happened.
General Soreness or Discomfort
It’s completely normal to experience some tenderness in your teeth and mouth for a few days after you first get your braces and after adjustments. This is a sign that your teeth are on the move!
- What to do: Stick to a soft food diet for a day or two. You can also soothe discomfort by gently rinsing your mouth with a warm salt-water solution (one teaspoon of salt in a glass of lukewarm water).
- For pain: If the soreness is more significant, a pain reliever like Acetaminophen (Tylenol®) can help.
Poking Wires or Loose Brackets
As your teeth shift, a wire might start to poke your cheek, or a bracket might come loose.
- For a Poking Wire: Gently use the eraser end of a pencil to push the poking wire back into place or flat against your tooth. If that doesn’t work, you can cover the end with a small piece of orthodontic wax.
- For a Loose Bracket: If a bracket comes loose but is still attached to the wire, leave it in place and cover it with wax if it’s causing irritation. If it comes off completely, save it and bring it with you to your next appointment. Please give us a call to let us know it’s loose so we can plan for your repair.
Irritation to Lips and Cheeks
For the first week or two, your lips and cheeks are getting used to sharing space with your new braces. If you develop a sore spot, we are happy to provide you with soft orthodontic wax. Simply pinch off a small piece, roll it into a ball, and press it over the bracket that is causing the irritation.
When in Doubt, Give Us a Call!
Your comfort and care are our top priorities. If you’re ever unsure about what to do or if you’re experiencing a problem that you can’t resolve, please don’t hesitate to contact our office. We are always here to help you on your journey to a beautiful smile!
