IN CASE OF EMERGENCY:

 

If something should unexpectedly go wrong with your treatment or appliances, we want to address your situation as quickly as possible.  Please refer to the guide below regarding how best to deal with a particular situation.

 

Sore spot on the cheek - Sore spots are common with braces, especially in the first few weeks of treatment.  These can be relieved by placing wax on the bracket or wire that is causing the irritation.  The sore spot will heal within a few days and the wax can be removed.

 

General soreness - Generalized soreness is very common during braces, especially in the first 7-10 days.  Think of this a something similar to sore muscles following a good hard work-out: it can be annoying and irritating, but it's a good sign to indicate that things are improving.  It is recommended to take Advil or Tylenol as you normally would for any pain and soreness.    

 

Poking wire - Cover the end of the wire with wax to reduce the irritation, and call the office for an appointment to get the wire clipped.  If wax does not help and the wire continues to irritate, it often can be clipped carefully with a fingernail clipper.  Please call for an appointment to have the wire replaced, if needed.

 

Broken appliance (expander, herbst appliance, etc) - Please call the office immediately.

 

Broken bracket - Please call the office on the next business day to schedule an appointment to have the bracket repaired in a timely manner.  Please note that a broken bracket is NOT a dental emergency.

 

Loose retainer wire - If a bonded retainer wire should come loose, please call our office immediately.

 

Injury - If you are in an accident that causes trauma to your teeth, mouth, or braces, please call our office immediately. If the situation requires immediate medical attention such as a broken bone, please present to the nearest emergency room, as needed. Any broken or cracked teeth should be addressed by calling your general dentist.  Jaw fractures may need to be repaired by an oral surgeon.

 

For a true medical emergency, please call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.