We know orthodontic emergencies are never convenient nor timely. 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. Common issues include broken brackets or appliances, poking or sharpness from brackets and wires, and general soreness. While we always recommend you consult us if you experience these issues, you may be able to temporarily solve many problems yourself until you visit our office.
When you get your braces on, it is very common for you to feel general soreness in your mouth, and teeth may be tender to biting pressures for three to five days.
This can be relieved by rinsing your mouth with a warm salt water mouthwash.
Dissolve one teaspoonful of salt in 8 ounces of warm water, and rinse your mouth vigorously. If the tenderness is severe, take over the counter Tylenol or other headache/pain relief medication.
Placing wax on the poking edge of the wire is a great way to alleviate the discomfort.
If your bracket or band is still attached to the wire, you should leave it in place and put wax on it. If the wire comes out entirely, wrap the bracket in a tissue, and call our office immediately.
For those patients, it is important to use the appliance as instructed for the prescribed hours. If it is loose or poor fitting, the progression of the treatment may be delayed. If a part of the appliance is bent or it is no longer fitting well, please call our office for assistance.
Remember, after alleviating your discomfort, it is still very important that you call our office as soon as possible to schedule a time to repair the problem so we do not delay the progression of your treatment.
If you find yourself in an uncomfortable situation, you or your child, during after hours, do not hesitate to text our after hour emergency line at 703 821 2222. Someone will get back to you as soon as possible.
Regards,
Tysons West Orthodontics and Children's Dentistry
All Rights Reserved | Tysons West Orthodonitcs & Children's Dentistry