Broken or loose appliances may occur during your orthodontic care. Disturbances such as loose brackets, bands, or poking wires are not considered orthodontic emergencies, and therfore do not require you to be seen in our office outside regular business hours. However, it is necessary that you do call our office as soon as possible the next business day so that we can evaluate the urgency of the problem and schedule you to be seen accordingly.
In the case you do need assistance outside business hours, please call our office and our voice mail will give you instructions on what to do and whom to call.
Problems and Solutions
Loose Bracket - If the bracket or band is still attached to the wire, leave it in place. If it is uncomfortable, cover it with wax. Do not connect headgear or elastics to a loose bracket or band. If a loose band becomes dislodged, call for an appointment and bring the dislodged band.
Lost Elastic or Wire Tie - Call to ask if an appointment is necessary.
Wire Out of Tube - Try to place the wire back into the tube using tweezers or place wax over it if it is uncomfortable and call for an appointment.
Rotated Archwire - Try to slide the wire around to the other side. If unsuccessful, place wax on the wire and call for an appointment
Poking Wire Tie - Bend the wire back with a Q-tip or pencil eraser. If unsuccessful, cover with wax and call for an appointment.
Poking Archwire - If accessable, may use fingernail clippers to cut or cover with wax and call for an appointment.
Other Problems
- Appliance Does Not Fit - Call for an appointment
- Soreness from Braces - Rinse with warm salt water for gum or cheek irritation. If necessary, take a pain reliever that you would use to relieve a headache or other minor irritation.
