Surprisingly, most orthodontic problems can be remedied at home. While you await your appointment, these guidelines will help you resolve minor problems. Please know that even if you alleviate any discomfort caused by a broken appliance at home, we still need to see you in the office to repair the appliance.
Lost Separator
At Prosper Trail Orthodontics, some patients lose a separator during their treatment. Do not worry about losing a separator, it can fall out after it has finished creating space for the appliance. If the separator does not fall out on its own, we will remove the separator prior to placing the appliance at your next appointment.
Sore Teeth/Discomfort with Orthodontic Treatment
Right after you get your braces, and sometimes after you have an adjustment appointment, your teeth and mouth may feel sore. To alleviate the pain, you may take acetaminophen or other non-aspirin pain relievers for a couple of days. You can also gargle lukewarm saltwater, which is a mixture of one teaspoon of salt dissolved in eight ounces of water. A warm washcloth or a heating pad may also reduce the soreness in your jaws.
Wire Irritations
Try moving the wire away from the irritated area with a cotton swab or eraser. If the wire does not move, try covering the end of it with a small piece of cotton or a small amount of wax. If the wire is painful, you can cut it with clean nail clippers or scissors that have been washed and sterilized in alcohol.
Loose Bracket
First, call our office to let us know you have a loose bracket so we can prepare to fix it at your next appointment. If you have a situation where you must cut the wire or slide a bracket off the wire, you may use fingernail clippers that have been washed and sterilized in alcohol.
Loose Wire
Try putting the wire back in place using tweezers that have been washed and sterilized in alcohol. If that does not work, try putting wax over the wire where it is poking you. If you have a situation where you must cut the wire, you may use fingernail clippers that have been washed and sterilized in alcohol. Cut the wire behind the last bracket in which it is secured.
We’re Here to Help!
Orthodontic emergencies are rare, but we are always available to help you. If you have a broken appliance or are experiencing discomfort, please call us so we can see you at the office. Even if you have a regular adjustment appointment scheduled already, please call at your earliest convenience to notify us that you need an appliance repaired.