Your Comfort Is Our Priority
Orthodontic treatment is all about achieving your dream smile comfortably and efficiently. While braces and aligners are designed to be durable, occasional issues may arise during your treatment. At Taunton Orthodontics, we’re here to ensure you stay as comfortable as possible and to address any concerns promptly.
Common orthodontic issues like loose brackets, poking wires, or general soreness can happen, but with the right care and support, they’re easy to manage. Below, you’ll find tips for handling the most common appliance issues until we can assist you.
Brackets are the key components of braces that hold the wires in place and guide your teeth into alignment. While bonded with strong adhesive, they can occasionally loosen due to sticky foods, hard-to-chew items, or injuries to the mouth. Using a mouthguard during sports is an excellent way to protect your braces from damage.
What to Do:
If a bracket becomes loose, try to keep it in place until your appointment. If it’s on a back molar, you may carefully slide it off the wire and cover the exposed wire with orthodontic wax. Save the bracket and bring it with you to your appointment. Contact us as soon as possible so we can address the issue quickly!
Occasionally, the wires of your braces may shift, causing irritation to your cheeks, tongue, or gums. This discomfort is common but can be easily managed until your visit.
What to Do:
Dry the irritated area with a cotton swab or tissue, then apply orthodontic wax over the poking wire to prevent further irritation. If discomfort persists, reach out to us for assistance.
It’s normal to feel some tenderness after braces are adjusted or first applied. This soreness usually subsides within a few days, but for some, it may last a bit longer.
What to Do:
Over-the-counter pain relief such as Tylenol or Advil can help ease soreness. Stick to softer foods and rinse with warm saltwater to soothe discomfort. If the pain becomes severe, contact our office for guidance.
We’re Here To Help
If you’re experiencing any discomfort or issues with your braces or appliances, don’t hesitate to contact our team at 905-620-0056 or fill out the form below. We’ll assess the urgency of your situation and schedule an appointment to resolve the issue promptly.
If this is outside business hours and you require a more immediate response, please either email: afterhours(AT)tauntonorthodontics.com or click the chat button at the bottom right and one of our team members will respond. At Taunton Orthodontics, your comfort is always our priority!
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