What To Do in Case of an Orthodontic Emergency?

Most orthodontic concerns can wait until the office re-opens. However, in case of an emergency you can always reach us after hours. Please review the suggestions below. If you are still in need of after hour assistance, please call our office and you will be instructed on how to reach Dr. Swiatek or the on-call orthodontic clinician.

Sore spot on cheek:

When you first receive your braces or your orthodontic appliance, sore spots may develop on the inside of your cheeks. To protect your cheek, place wax on the offending bracket, wire or appliance. During non-sleeping hours, cotton rolls can be placed between the appliance and your cheek to provide relief. Rinsing with warm salt water several times a day is very soothing to your gum and cheek tissues. The cheeks will toughen up after a short while. If you have used all of the wax provided to you, orthodontic wax can be purchased at a drug store and we will be happy to supply you with more on our next working day.

Soreness:

You may take an over-the-counter pain reliever such as Tylenol or Advil as you would for a headache or similar discomfort. Soreness can be expected for 3-5 days after an adjustment. Good toothbrushing, warm saltwater rinses several times a day.

Loose bracket:

Please call us on the next business day if you have a loose bracket. A broken bracket is not an orthodontic emergency, but should be fixed in a timely manner.  By calling our office we are able to make sure that the appropriate amount of time is set aside for the repair.

Loose appliance:

If your expander or Herbst appliance becomes loose, please contact our office immediately during office hours.

Loose retainer wire:

If your bonded retainer wire becomes loose, please contact our office immediately during office hours.

Poking wire:

Place wax over the poking wire. If the wax does not help, please call us and we will clip the wire to make you more comfortable. Poking wires are very common as the teeth move.

Injury

If you have a traumatic injury resulting in cuts to your lips or gums or if you have a loose tooth, please contact our office immediately. If you have broken any part of a tooth, you will need to contact your family dentist. If you suspect that your jaw has been injured or notice that your teeth have been moved by the accident, you may also need to be seen by an oral surgeon.