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Orthodontic Emergencies

You may be able to solve many brace problems temporarily by yourself until you schedule a repair appointment with our office. These problems need not cause delay in your treatment.

Braces and Wires
If a broken appliance can be removed easily, take it out. If it cannot, cover the sharp or protruding portion with cotton balls, gauze, wax or chewing gum. If a wire is stuck in the gums, cheek or tongue, DO NOT remove it. Contact Commerce Park Children's Dentistry & Orthodontics immediately. (Loose or broken appliances which do not bother the child usually do not require emergency attention.)

Loose Band or Bracket
If a band or bracket is still attached to wire, leave in place. If uncomfortable, place wax on it. It is comes out completely, wrap brace or bracket in tissue.

Loose Wire
Try to place wire back in place with tweezers. If that is not possible, clip wire with fingernail clippers behind last tooth to which it is securely fastened. If any discomfort, place wax on it.

Poking Wire
Try to push sticking wire down with a spoon or eraser. If not possible, place wax on it.

Lost Tiewire or Elastic Tie
Notify us at next appointment.

Soreness
Use warm saltwater rinses and/or Tylenol, or Ibuprofen

Headgear Does Not Fit
Sometimes caused by not wearing as prescribed. If facebow is bent call office at once.

Loose Appliance
If appliance is sticking or poking place wax on it.

If you feel you are unable to handle a problem on your own, please call us as soon as possible.

Care of Mouth After Extraction
Pediatric Emergencies