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Orthodontic
first aid
Even though you are careful, you still
may occasionally do some damage to your appliances. You need to call our office
right away if a bracket or a band becomes loose, if an arch-wire breaks or comes
out of a slot, or if your gums are unusually sore and irritated. We will tell
you if your problem requires immediate attention.
 | If a small wire is sticking and causing irritation,
try pushing it away from the area being irritated using a pencil eraser, or
some other smooth object. If the wire cannot be tucked in, cover the end of
the wire with a small piece of wax, a cotton ball, or a piece of sugarless
gum, until you can see us for an adjustment. Cutting the wire should only be
done as a last resort if professional help is unavailable. |
| If the main wire has come out of the tube on the
back molar tooth, you may attempt to reinsert the wire with a pair of
tweezers. If you are having a difficult time and the wire is not sticking
you, place a piece of wax over the area. If the wire is sticking you and wax
does not help the wire can be cut with a small wire cutter or toenail
clipper close to the back last brace. Cutting the wire should only be done
as a last resort if professional help is unavailable. |
| If a retainer cracks, remove the retainer from your
mouth and bring all the pieces to our office for repair. |
| If you are involved in contact sports, a regular
mouthguard can be fitted over your braces for added protection. |
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