What to do in case of emergency
In case of an emergency, we would like to know about it as soon as possible. Please do not come directly to the office - by calling us, you will allow us to create a time to see you. Even if you have a regular appointment scheduled, call us immediately to notify us if you need an appliance repaired.

Loose brackets or bands
Call our office for advice if a brace or wire is loosened. The brace may need to be re-fitted as soon as possible. You may have a situation that requires cutting a wire or sliding a bracket off a wire at night or over the weekend. If you need to cut a wire in case of emergency, fingernail clippers that have been washed and sterilized in alcohol may be used. Please call our office the next business day so that we may schedule an appointment for you.

Wire irritations
Sometimes discomfort caused by a wire on your braces can be resolved by moving the wire away from the irritated area with a cotton swab or eraser. If the wire will not move, try covering the end of it with a small piece of cotton or a small amount of wax. If the wire is painful, you may cut it as mentioned above. If you cannot resolve the wire irritation, call our office for an appointment.

Lost separators
Many patients lose a separator during their treatment. Do not worry about losing a separator, but call our office to see if it needs to be replaced.

Discomfort with Orthodontic Treatment
During the first week after your braces are in place and routine adjustments are complete, you will likely feel some soreness or discomfort. You may take acetaminophen or ibuprofen while you adjust to your new braces. A warm wash cloth or heating pad may reduce the soreness in your jaws.