Actual orthodontic emergencies are very rare, and the overwhelming majority of patients who undergo treatment will never experience one. If you do find yourself in extreme pain, or have an extremely painful appliance, please contact us today at (517) 787-9833 (Jackson) or (269) 979-9329 (Battle Creek).
If the pain you are experiencing is the result of a broken appliance, it is important that you contact Dr. Sonneborn’s office as soon as you can so we can get your appliance fixed. Long periods of time with a broken appliance can lead to an extension in the amount of time it will take to complete your treatment. The temporary fixes listed below can be done by you to help alleviate pain and minimize problems until you can be seen in the office.
General Soreness
Some minor soreness for the first few days after receiving your braces or other orthodontic appliances is to be expected, but this will pass once your mouth has grown accustomed to things. Rinsing your mouth with 8oz. of warm water and a teaspoon of salt, numbing gels, and pain relief medicine can help to keep discomfort to a minimum. We can also provide you with wax to place on areas of the braces that are of particular discomfort for you.
Headgear
It is extremely important that you wear your headgear for the amount of time that Dr. Sonneborn prescribes for you, as the headgear will hurt less the more it is worn.
Loose Appliance
If an appliance becomes loose or breaks free, please call the office as soon as you can to setup an appointment to have it repaired.
Loose Bracket
If one of your brackets breaks free from your teeth, but remains on the wire, you can put some wax on it until you can get in to the office to have it repaired. If the bracket comes off of the wire, keep it safe, and bring it to the office when you come in to have it repaired.
Loose Wire
If you have a loose wire, try using a small pair of tweezers to repair it by reattaching it to the bracket. Wax can also be used as needed.
Poking Wire
If a wire breaks free and is poking you, you can use a pencil eraser to press it down, and bend it away from sensitive areas of your mouth. You can also place wax on it to cover the sharp portion until you come into the office for repair.