Is it really an emergency?

More than likely, it’s not.

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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.

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You might be surprised to learn that you may be able to temporarily solve many problems yourself until your scheduled appointment with our office. However, allowing your appliance to remain damaged for an extended period of time may result in disruptions in your treatment plan. If your appliance is damaged, please contact our office to ensure any emergencies are properly addressed to keep your treatment plan on track.

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Continue reading below for tips from Dr. Ahrens about potential issues or emergencies that may arise while living with braces.

General Soreness

Solution: Saltwater Rinse

Initially, you may feel general soreness in your mouth, and your 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. Simply 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 / Fingernal Clippers / Wax

Using a pencil eraser, push the poking wire down or place wax on it to alleviate the discomfort. You can also 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.

Irritated Tissue

Solution: Salt Water Rinse

To calm irritated gums, you can make a saltwater solution at home. Mix a teaspoon of salt into into 8 ounces of warm water. While the solution is still warm, swish around in your mouth for 15 to 30 seconds. When done rinsing, spit the salt water solution out. You can repeat this process 2 to 3 times a day, but do not overuse the solution, as it can lead to a weakened enamel.

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