Emergency Care
If you experience a true orthodontic emergency (which is usually rare) or are needing a typical repair, we are here for you! Please call our office if you are experiencing severe pain or are having a painful appliance issue that you can’t take care of yourself, we’ll be happy to schedule an appointment to resolve the problem!
There are many ways to repair typical problems yourself temporarily until you can see us. Once done, please give our office a call as soon as possible so we can ensure nothing is delaying treatment.
General soreness
Once braces are placed, you may feel general soreness and your teeth may be tender to biting pressures. This usually lasts 3-5 days. If it lasts longer then that, please give our office a call.
Your diet should consist of soft and non-sticky foods that doesn’t bother your braces when chewing. Irritated gums and other sore sports can be relieved by rinsing your mouth with 1 teaspoon of salt in an 8 ounce cup of warm water, then rinse vigorously!
A better tasting mouthwash is the Healthy Gums Rinse by The Natural Dentist. You can also use Orabse on an affected area to relieve discomfort (found in your local pharmacy).
Irritation of the lips, cheeks and tongue usually occur for 1-2 weeks as they adjust to the braces. Putting wax on the braces aides with this. Ask us & we’ll show you what to do!
Headgear
Headgear can cause discomfort by not wearing as instructed. Please double check the instructions Dr. Laberge has given with the correct number of hours you should be wearing your headgear for. If the face bow (metal piece) is bent, please call our office as soon as possible so we can get the appliance repaired. The more your headgear is worn, the less discomfort you’ll have.
Loose appliance
Wax can be used on sore spots on the offending part of the appliance. If your appliance is loose, please give our office a call as allowing an appliance to remain loose for a period of extended time will disrupt treatment.
Loose bracket
If the bracket or band is loose/off, but still attached to the wire leave it in place and use wax as needed. If the bracket or band is not attached to the wire, please save it and put it in an envelope or zip block bag and bring to your next appointment.
Loose wire
If you have a pokey wire at the back you can try using small fingernail clippers to clip the wire behind the last tooth that is securely fastened. If the wire is still a little sharp try placing wax on top to eliminate irritation.
If you are able to use tweezers or needle-nosed pliers, try putting the wire back inside the bracket and closing the door. Please call our office as soon as possible, this way we can ensure every part is still active and not delaying treatment.
Poking wire
Using a pencil eraser, push the poking wire down or place wax to ensure there is no irritation. Please call our office immediately to get the wire trimmed or replaced.
