For true Emergencies, call us anytime, day or night.
(502) 426-2744
Is it Really an Emergency?
More than likely, it's not:
True orthodontic emergencies are very rare, but when they do occur we are available to you. As a general rule, you should call the office when you experience severe pain or when you have a painful appliance problem that you can't take care of yourself. We'll be able to schedule an appointment to resolve the problem. You might be surprised to learn that you may be able to temporarily solve many problems yourself until you schedule an appointment with our office. Allowing your appliance to remain damaged for an extended period of time may result in disruptions in your treatment plan.
General Soreness
Saltwater Solution
Initially, you may feel
general
soreness in your mouth and teeth may be tender to biting pressures for three to five days.
This can be relieved by rinsing your mouth with a warm saltwater mouthwash. Dissolve one
teaspoonful of salt in eight ounces of warm water, and rinse your mouth vigorously.
Loose Appliance
Solution: Wax
- If your appliance is poking you, place wax on the offending part of your appliance to relieve direct contact with gum tissue.
Loose Bracket
Solution: Wax
- If your bracket or band is still attached to the wire, you should leave it in place and put wax on it. If the wire comes out entirely, wrap the bracket with a tissue, and bring it to your next appointment.
Loose Wire
Solution: Tweezer / Wax
- Using a tweezer, try to put your wire back into place. If doing this and using wax doesn't help, as a last resort use a small fingernail clipper to clip the wire behind the last tooth to which it is securely fastened. If your discomfort continues, place wax on it.
Poking Wire
Solution: Pencil Eraser
- Using a pencil eraser, push the poking wire down or place wax on it to alleviate the discomfort.
