Sore teeth
It is common for teeth to become sore for the first few hours after an orthodontic procedure. It can last for a few days sometimes. Rinsing mouth with warm salted water typically helps to reduce swelling.
Do not confuse sore teeth with loose teeth. Often after the orthodontic procedure the teeth will feel loose. The major goal of the orthodontic treatment using braces is to move around and align the teeth. So, it is normal to have the loose feeling.
Appliance breakage
Despite taking care of their dental braces, people still end up with broken brackets and loose wires. If that’s the case, don’t try to hide it from your orthodontist. Call the orthodontic office for advice. If the problem seems to be in need of immediate attention, they might schedule an emergency appointment. A few things to consider:
- Loose wire – if a loose wire cutting your cheek, cover the abrasive end of wire with a ball of wax until the orthodontist can fix it.
- Snapped off bracket – if the archwire is still being held in place, save the bracket that came off and take it to your next orthodontic appointment, so the doctor will know what is missing.
- Broken band – if that is the case, call your orthodontist to see if an emergency appointment is necessary. Band is the metal piece that surrounds the tooth and supports other structures. The archwire relies on this band for support.
Stuck food
If some parts of your meal stuck between the teeth, and you believe you can’t remove it without pulling out the bracket, try to floss first. If you think the brace will be dismounted, call your orthodontist office for advice, as an additional appointment may be needed.
Infected gums
It is typical for food particles to be stuck under the wire. If those food particles got to decay and your gums being infected, you should not wait till your next appointment. Call the orthodontics office, as prompt attention should help with discomfort.
Solving the problem
If you don’t want to call with every minor problem to your orthodontist personally, call his office. Dental assistants will let you know how serious your problem seems to be. They might also give you advices on how to lessen discomfort, and if an emergency orthodontic appointment is necessary.
What to do if you are out of town?
If you're at home, school, or even work and an archwire becomes loose or your band breaks, you can always call your orthodontist.
What if you're with friends in another state, and something goes wrong with your dental braces?
If you're visiting out-of-state, check with your orthodontist ahead of time under what circumstances to call someone and what qualifications he must have.
If something happens, you'll be prepared and know when to make an appointment with a local orthodontist or call emergency room. Always take your orthodontist phone number with you. If unfortunately you've been in an accident and your braces are messed up, the emergency room might need to call your orthodontist to confer with him.