At Clarity Orthodontics, we want you to know that we are here for you in the case of an emergency. We want to be informed if something unexpected occurs with your orthodontic appliance so we can help as soon as possible. Please contact us if you ever have questions that cannot be answered on our website and the doctor will determine if an emergency office visit is recommended.
Possible orthodontic emergencies and how to respond:
- Poking wire – Place wax over the end of the wire and contact our office so we can make you more comfortable.
- Broken/loose bracket – Please schedule an appointment to have it replaced as soon as possible to prevent unwanted tooth movement.
- Loose back band – Please contact our office to schedule an appointment to have the band recemented.
- Colored O-ring comes off a bracket – Please schedule an appointment to have it replaced.
- Metal tie-wire poking – Push it in toward the tooth with the eraser end of a pencil and put wax over it. Schedule an appointment to have it replaced if it continues to bother you.
- Broken main archwire – Please contact our office to make an appointment to have it replaced as soon as possible.
- Sore teeth – This is normal and can last for a day or two after each visit. Take over-the-counter Tylenol (if not allergic) as directed.
- Broken/damaged retainer – If a retainer cracks, is damaged or no longer fits properly, remove it from your mouth and schedule an appointment for a replacement retainer. Bring the existing retainers with you.
- Lost retainer- Please contact our office as soon as possible to schedule an appointment for a replacement retainer. Retention is an important part of maintaining your beautiful straight smile.
- Severe trauma with loose teeth – Contact the doctor immediately or visit the nearest emergency dental treatment facility—Dentistry24hours.com
Remember that loose and broken braces are most often caused by eating the wrong foods or chewing on hard objects like a pen or a pencil. Our original estimate of your total treatment time assumes your full cooperation and compliance. Loose and broken braces, poor compliance, poor hygiene and missed appointments prolong treatment time.
