True orthodontic emergencies are rare, but we understand that things happen and patients may need some assistance. For that reason, our doctors, Dr. Jarosz and Dr. Valente are always available to help you! It is our goal to ensure that your time with braces is as trouble-free as possible. We have put together some key tips to help you resolve any orthodontic issue at home.
At first, becoming accustomed to having braces may take some time. It is not unusual to have slight soreness after having your braces put on your teeth, following adjustment appointments, or changing your aligners. While some general soreness is normal, having a true orthodontic emergency is rare as most patients undergo treatment without having any major problems whatsoever.
Lost Separator
Most patients lose a separator during their treatment - it’s not uncommon! You don’t have to worry about losing a separator, just call our Arlington Heights or Deerfield office to let us know and we’ll tell you if it needs to be replaced.
Sore Teeth/Discomfort with Orthodontic Treatment
During the first week of your treatment, while your mouth is still adjusting to its new hardware, it’s common that you’ll experience discomfort, soreness, or pain in various parts of your mouth. Stay strong! This is a normal part of the process. To alleviate the pain, you may take acetaminophen or other non-aspirin pain relievers while you adjust to your new braces. You can also gargle lukewarm salt water, which is a mixture of one teaspoon of salt dissolved in eight ounces of water. A warm washcloth or a heating pad may also reduce the soreness in your jaws.
Wire Irritations
It is not uncommon for wires in braces to catch parts of your mouth and cause irritation. Try 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 can cut it with nail clippers or scissors that have been washed and sterilized in alcohol. If you’re unable to resolve the problem with an irritating wire, call us to set up an appointment with our orthodontist in Deerfield or Arlington Heights.
Loose Brackets or Bands
If you break or loosen any of your appliances, call us as soon as possible. Please don’t come straight to the office. Based on the phone call, we’ll evaluate the situation to see if the bracket needs to be re-fitted. If an emergency arises and you need a wire to be cut, wash and sterilize fingernail clippers in alcohol, then use them to cut the wire. Call our Arlington Heights or Deerfield office as soon as you can after doing this so we can schedule a repair appointment.
Contact Your Deerfield & Arlington Heights Orthodontist Today!
If you would like to set up an appointment for comprehensive orthodontic care, fill out our easy appointment request form or give us a call. You can reach us at (847) 632-1030 for our Arlington Heights office or (847) 945-3700 for our Deerfield office. If you have any other questions, please feel free to contact us. We’re more than glad to help you with any of your concerns. We look forward to making your orthodontic treatment go as smoothly as possible!