True orthodontic emergencies are very rare, but when they do occur we are available to you. As a general rule, you should call the office when you experience severe pain or when you have a painful appliance problem that you can’t take care of yourself. We’ll be able to schedule an appointment to resolve the problem. Be sure to reference the list below for some immediate solutions.
Immediate Relief Solutions:
Protruding Wire
Using the tip of a pencil eraser, push the poking wire down or place wax on it to alleviate the irritation.
Loose Bracket, Band or Wire
If your bracket or band is still attached to the wire, you should leave it in place and put wax on it. If a wire is loose, try using tweeters to put it back into place. If this does not help, place some wax over it.
Soreness After an Adjustment
When you get your braces on, you may feel general soreness in your mouth and teeth may be tender to biting pressures for three to five days following the adjustment. This can be relieved by rinsing your mouth with warm salt water. Another option is to use Orabase as a temporary covering to the affected area. If the tenderness is severe, take aspirin or whatever you normally take for headache or similar pain.
The lips, cheeks, and tongue may also become irritated during the adjustment process. They toughen as you get used to the feeling of braces. Put wax on the braces to ease the pain associated with this process.
If you live in or around Fresno and are in need of urgent orthodontic care, give us a call today!