Home Care Supplies
Non-medicated orthodontic relief wax
Dental floss
Sterile tweezers
Small Sharp clipper
Q-tips
Salt
Interproximal brush
Toothpicks
Non-prescription pain reliever (acetaminophen or ibuprofen)
Topical Anesthetic (such as Orabase or Ora-Gel)
Food Caught Between Teeth
This is not an emergency, but can be uncomfortable or embarrassing. It is easily fixed with a piece of dental floss. Tie a small knot in the middle of the floss to help remove the food. Or use interproximal brush or toothpick to dislodge food caught between teeth and braces.
Discomfort
It is normal to have discomfort for 2-4 days after braces or
retainers are adjusted. It can make eating uncomfortable.
The discomfort is normal and temporary. Eat soft food and
rinse with warm salt water. Over-the-counter pain relievers
may be effective.
Mouth Sores
Some patients are susceptible to episodes of mouth sores. While braces do not cause them, they may be precipitated by an irritation from braces. This is uncomfortable and prompt relief may be achieved by applying small amount of topical anesthetic (such as Orabase or Ora-Gel) directly to the ulcerated surface using a cotton swab. Reapply as needed.
Irritation in Mouth
Sometimes new braces can be irritating to the mouth, especially when the patient is eating. A small amount of non-medicinal relief wax makes an excellent buffer between the metal and the mouth. Pinch a small amount of wax, roll it into a ball the size of a small pea. Flatten the ball and place it completely over the area of the braces causing irritation. If the wax is ingested it's not a problem. The wax is harmless.
Protruding Wire
Occasionally the end of a wire will work itself out of place and irritate the mouth. Use a Q-tip or pencil eraser to push the wire so that it is flat against the tooth
and cover with wax. In a situation where the wire is extremely bothersome you may clip the wire. Relief wax may still be necessary to provide comfort to the irritating area. Please call the office so we can check the wire.
Loose Wires, Brackets or Bands
If the braces have come loose in anyway please schedule an appointment with us, so we can determine the next step.
Bracket is Knocked Off
Brackets are the parts of braces attached to the teeth with a special adhesive. They are generally positioned in then center of the tooth. The bracket is knocked off with hard or crunchy food, or the mouth is struck while at play. We encourage all patient to wear protective mouthguard (especially with braces) while playing a sport. If the bracket is loose please call our office so we can schedule an appointment.
Band Irritation
The band is a metal ring that is cemented around the tooth most likely in the back teeth. At the beginning it is normal to experience discomfort and slight irritation
of the area for 2-4 days. We advise to keep a good oral hygiene, rinse with warm salt water and take some over the counter pain reliever.
Please call/text our office (484.580.8050) if you have any concerns or questions. Please text our emergency number 267.879.8509 when the office is closed.
We are happy to help you!
Your Devon Orthodontics Team