ORTHODONOTIC EMERGENCIES
And what to do about them.

Wire Sticking: As your teeth shift and straighten or when we close spaces, your wire may stick you.
What to do: Place a small piece of wax on the area where the wire is poking and call the office the next business day for an appointment to have it clipped or adjusted.

Loose Brackets: If one of your brackets comes loose from your teeth, don't panic! It is not an emergency.
What to do: If the bracket causes irritation, you can remove the rubber band that is holding it to the wire by using a toothpick. Please save the bracket and bring it with you to your next appointment. Call the office on the next business day and schedule an appointment to have the bracket replaced.

Please note that your contract states that after the 5th loose brackket, you may be charged a $30.00 repair fee for EACH bracket that is loose. Please be very careful with your braces and what you are eating or putting in your mouth. Too many broken brackets may extend your treatment time.

Sore Teeth: It is very normal for teeth to get sore after an adjustment, and may last 2-3 days. Tylenol or Advil may be taken for the discomfort.

Ulcers: Ulcers sometimes occur with braces.
What to do: Wax placed on the bracket in the area of the ulcer helps with the discomfort and helps the ulcer heal faster. At the first sign of an ulcer, a warm, salty water rinse should help.

Appliances: If any part of the appliance comes loose or breaks, call the office for a repair appointment. Save the piece and bring it with you when you come to your appointment.

Swollen or Puffy Gums: Swollen gums are caused by not properly brushing your teeth and gums.
What to do: Properly brush teeth and gums at least 3 times a day and floss every night.

Loose teeth: It is not at all unusual for your teeth to feel loose while wearing braces. We are moving your teeth and they sometimes feel loose. Don't worry! They will tighten up after we are finished moving them.

In the event of an emergency, please call (678) 361-1063.