First Aid at Home
If You Have A Problem, Don't Panic
You may be able to solve many braces problems temporarily by yourself until you schedule a repair appointment with our office. These problems need not cause delay in your treatment. Any time that you feel that you are unable to handle any orthodontic problem comfortably, please call us—we are at your service.
- Loose Band or Bracket
- If the band or bracket is still attached to the wire, leave it in place. If it's uncomfortable, place wax on it. Sometimes you can remove the rubber tie with tweezers, allowing you to detach the bracket from the wire.
- Loose Wire
- Try to push the wire back into place using tweezers. If that is not possible, clip the wire with fingernail clippers or small wire cutters behind the last tooth to which it is securely fastened. If it's causing discomfort, place wax on it.
- Poking Wire
- Using a spoon or eraser, try to push down the end of the wire which is poking you. If this is not possible, place wax on it.
- Soreness
- There may be soreness for several days after each office visit. Carefully chew on sugarless gum after adjustments to minimize soreness. Use warm salt water rinses and/or Tylenol, or Ibuprofen as needed.
- Loose Appliance
- If the appliance is sticking or poking you, place wax on it to stabilize it.