Orthodontic First Aid

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Orthodontic First Aid

Orthodontic Appliances

Just like any other device, there is a possibility of something happening to your orthodontic appliance. Here is a list of possible things that could occur, as well as some instructions on what to do in case they do happen.

Wires may cause irritation – If possible, simply push the wire away from the irritated area using a pencil's eraser or a cotton swab. Use a small piece of wax, if the wire cannot be pushed away.

Main wire may come out of the brace – If the wire has come out of the brace on the back molar, try to reinsert the wire with needle-nosed pliers or tweezers. Place some wax over the wire if it is sticking you. If the wax does not help, using nail clippers, carefully clip the wire close to the back of the last brace. This is only to be done as a last resort if this occurs after hours.

Teeth may become sore – If this happens, we usually recommend taking an analgesic such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin). These medications should not be taken if the patient has any allergies to these medications. Another remedy would be to rinse your mouth with Peroxyl or a cup of warm water and a teaspoon of salt to help alleviate discomfort.

Food may become stuck between teeth – To help dislodge the food, use dental floss or a proxy brush.
The brace may come loose from a tooth – Since the brace usually stays connected to the main wire, it is not a cause for an emergency visit. Use a pair of tweezers to reposition the brace if it flips around and irritates the gums. Contact our office at your earliest convenience so we can determine if a separate visit is necessary to repair the loose brace(s).

An expander may come loose – contact our office and we will let you know what to do.
Trauma to the mouth – contact our office we will let you know what to do.