True orthodontic emergencies are not very common, but Dr. Laprade at Pawtucket Orthodontics in Pawtucket and Lincoln is available to help when needed. Intense pain or a broken appliance is reason to call us as soon as possible so that we can fit you in for an appointment. Even if you already have a regular appointment planned, call us right away if you need an appliance repair. Remember that you still need an appliance repair appointment even if you are not experiencing pain caused by a broken appliance.

Most orthodontic problems can actually be repaired at home. Here are some tips for resolving minor issues yourself, as you wait to get an appointment at Pawtucket Orthodontics.

Soreness:

Your teeth will likely feel sore after you initially get braces and after adjustments. Taking non-aspirin pain relievers like acetaminophen will help ease discomfort, as well as placing a warm cloth or heating pad on your jaws. Gargling with a mixture of one teaspoon salt dissolved in an eight-ounce glass of water may also help.

Wire irritations:

It is not uncommon for wires to become displaced and poke the soft tissues of your mouth. Use a pencil eraser or cotton swab to relocate the wire away from the irritated area. If that doesn’t do the trick, cover the end of the wire with a little dental wax or small piece of cotton. You can also try cutting painful wires with scissors or nail clippers that are clean and sterilized with alcohol.

Loose bracket:

Call Pawtucket Orthodontics to ask if your bracket needs to be repaired. If you need to cut the wire or remove a bracket, use washed and sterilized nail clippers to do so. Schedule a repair appointment as soon as possible at our office.

Loose wire:

Use clean and sterile tweezers to put a loose wire back in place when possible. If that is unsuccessful, place dental wax over the bothersome wire. If you must cut the wire, use clean and sterile nail clippers to cut it behind the last bracket in which the wire is secured.

Lost separator:

It is common for patients to lose a separator during treatment. Just call Pawtucket Orthodontics to ask if it should be replaced.