For Discomfort

If you have soreness after the initial placement of your braces or after a routine adjustment, we recommend that you take Advil, Tylenol or Motrin if you are not allergic to these medications. Rinsing with warm salty water or Chloraseptic mouth rinse may also reduce any discomfort.

For Sore Spots

For a cheek irritation, dry the offending bracket and cover it with a small ball of wax. This will help cushion the irritated area while it heals. Oxyfresh gel is soothing and also helps the irritated tissue to heal. If you notice a spot on your gums that bleeds easily, is swollen or has pus draining, call for an appointment to have it checked.

For Wire Irritations

Try to push the wire in with a pencil eraser or cotton swab. You may also place a small ball of wax over the end of the wire to cover it until we can see you for an appointment to check it. We do not recommend trying to cut the wire yourself, due to the danger of swallowing the loose end.

For Lost Separators

Usually dislodged separators need to be replaced prior to your next appointment. Call on the next business day and the receptionist will let you know when to come in. Do not panic if you should swallow the separator, it will not harm you.

For Loose Brackets or Bands

Call on the next business day and the receptionist will arrange a repair time. This may require making a separate appointment or making your next regular appointment longer so we have enough time to fix what is broken. If you should have any parts of your braces come loose from your mouth, please bring them with you to your next visit.

For After Business Hours Emergencies

If you have a sports accident, a fall or other situation that requires immediate attention, call the office and follow the instructions to reach us through the answering service. Please do not call the answering service for loose brackets, lost separators or wire irritations as these situations are normally handled during business hours.