Loose Band or Bracket: If a band or bracket comes loose from the tooth, call our office for an appointment. While a tight band or bracket actually protects a tooth from decay, a loose band or bracket is extremely dangerous and decay can occur under it very rapidly. If the band or bracket is still attached to a wire, leave it in place and apply wax if there is discomfort. If the band or bracket comes completely out, place it in an envelope and call for an appointment.
Loose or Broken Archwire: If a main archwire breaks (the one that goes all the way around the outside of your braces), call our office for an emergency appointment. Try to place the wire back in the bracket/tube with your finger or the eraser end of a pencil. Place wax over it if there is any discomfort and call for an appointment.
Poking wire: Sometimes a poking wire can be safely turned down so that it no longer causes you discomfort. Try to tuck the wire back in and out of the way with the blunt end of a toothbrush, or some other smooth object. If you are unable to take care of a poking wire, apply wax and call our office for an appointment.
Lost colored elastic tie: This is NOT an emergency, but please notify an assistant at your next appointment.
Soreness: Soreness during treatment is to be expected. Warm salt-water rinses, Advil/Motrin, and a soft diet are helpful in relieving soreness.
Accidents involving teeth: Contact your family dentist if you’ve had any dental trauma, and call our office if your braces/appliances have been damaged. If you are involved in contact sports, a specialized in-office mouth guard can be fitted over your braces for added protection (ask us!).
Keep in mind that if your braces break, Dr. Zuch will repair the damage, but an abundance of emergency repairs can prolong treatment and incur additional costs.
Do you have a broken appliance or an area of the mouth that is bothering you? Click Here to send Dr. Zuch a couple photos. Once submitted, Dr. Zuch will review your images and we will let you know the next steps.