At Align Orthodontics Lexington, we understand that true orthodontic emergencies are uncommon, but when they do happen, we’re here for you. If you experience intense pain or have a troublesome appliance issue that you can’t manage on your own, please call our office promptly. We’ll arrange an appointment to fix the issue quickly.
You might be surprised to find that many orthodontic problems can be temporarily managed at home until you visit us. If you have a loose part that can be safely removed, keep it in a plastic bag or envelope and bring it to your next visit. For braces that are poking or irritating, applying orthodontic wax to the troubling area can provide relief. If a wire has shifted to one side, you can carefully reposition it to the proper place using needle-nosed pliers.
Even after finding a temporary fix, it’s essential to contact our office as soon as possible to repair the appliance. Leaving a broken or damaged device unattended can disrupt your treatment progress.
Request an AppointmentGeneral Soreness
Many patients notice soreness in their mouth and tenderness when biting for three to five days after getting braces. We recommend sticking to a soft diet until chewing feels comfortable. Sore spots and irritated gums can be soothed by rinsing with warm salt water — dissolve one teaspoon of salt in eight ounces of warm water and rinse vigorously. For more severe discomfort, taking Acetaminophen (Tylenol) or your usual pain reliever is fine. Avoid Aspirin, Ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil), or Naproxen Sodium (Naprosyn, Anaprox) as they can slow tooth movement if used frequently while wearing braces.
Your lips, cheeks, and tongue may feel irritated for up to two weeks as they adjust to the new braces. Applying wax to the braces can ease this discomfort, and we’ll happily show you how!
Headgear
Discomfort with headgear often comes from not wearing it as instructed by your orthodontist. Please follow the guidance provided carefully. If the metal facebow is bent, call Align Orthodontics Lexington for help. Remember, the more consistently you wear headgear as prescribed, the less it will bother you over time.
Loose Appliance
If an appliance is poking or causing irritation, place wax on the offending part to reduce discomfort.
Loose Bracket
If your bracket or band remains attached to the wire, keep it in place and apply wax if needed. If it can be removed easily, save it in an envelope and bring it to your next appointment.
Loose Wire
Try to reposition the wire using tweezers or needle-nosed pliers. You can also tie the wire in place with floss around the bracket if the colored o-ring is missing. If you can’t comfortably reposition the wire and wax doesn’t help, carefully clip the wire behind the last securely fastened tooth with a small fingernail clipper. Cover any sharp wire ends with wax to prevent irritation.
Request an AppointmentPoking Wire
Use a pencil eraser to gently push down a poking wire or cover it with wax to stop it from poking you.
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