Discomfort — It is normal to experience some mild discomfort
and soreness during orthodontic treatment. This generally
occurs after the braces or retainers are adjusted and can
last for 3 to 4 days. We recommend eating soft food during
the period after adjustments. Over-the-counter pain
medication may also help.

Direct injuries to the mouth and teeth.

As a general rule, following a direct injury to your mouth
and teeth (e.g. sports related), whether undergoing
orthodontic treatment or not, one should see their general
dentist as soon as possible.

Usually an x-ray of the tooth/teeth involved is needed to ascertain the extent of the
injury. If the orthodontic appliances are dislodged or displaced as a result of the injury,
we will need to replace or adjust them as soon as possible. Please call our office
immediately after seeing your family dentist.

 

Emergencies related to orthodontic appliances:

Broken or dislodged appliances may occur during orthodontic treatment.
If there is any disturbance, such as loose bands, broken or poking wires, call our
office as soon as possible so that we may evaluate the urgency of the issue and
schedule a visit.

The following are guidelines for some of the more common problems you may encounter:

If a tie wire is irritating your mouth, cover it with wax or tuck it under the arch wire with
a soft object such as a pencil eraser.

A loose band or a bracket, especially if causing discomfort, will require an office visit
to be reattached. Please call the office to schedule an appointment.

A broken arch wire, or one that is irritating the gum or the cheek tissue, needs to be
attended to as soon as possible for replacement or adjustment. Please call the office to
schedule an appointment. In the interim try covering it with wax or tuck it under the arch wire.

Headgear, or removable appliances that are not fitting well, should not be worn
until properly adjusted. Please call the office to schedule an appointment.