What you can do at home
Soreness:
After initial placement or adjustment of any type to your appliance or braces, soreness is expected. The soreness is due to the tooth movement and varies between individuals and can last anywhere from a few hours to a few days. Eat foods that don't require a lot of chewing and take a pain reliever of your choice (Tylenol, Motrin, etc.).Pokey Wire:
If the wire is in the front of your mouth, first dry the area and then place wax on the irritating wire. If the wire continues to aggravate the area, use nail clippers or wire cutters to cut the wire as close to the bracket as possible. If the pokey wire is in the very back of your mouth, first dry the area and then place a pea size ball of wax over the wire. Occasionally, due to the saliva, the was will not stay. In place of wax, we suggest you try sugar free gum (as an exception to our "no gum rule") for relief. In either case please call our office so we can schedule an appointment to fix the problem.Broken Removable Appliance:
Examples of a removable appliance are a retainer, expander, headgear, and so on. If you are wearing one of these appliances, and it is broken or not fitting properly, discontinue wearing it and call our office.Broken or Loose Bracket:
Loose or broken brackets have the ability to cause discomfort. If a bracket is loose but still attached to the wire and causing discomfort by rubbing, place wax on the bracket for immediate relief. Call our office and we will get you in as soon as possible to relieve the pain. If a bracket is loose, but not uncomfortable, please call our office so that we can set up an appointment to re-bond the bracket. 925-735-1515*** If you think you have a problem you cannot handle on your own, please call us as soon as possible. ***
