Lip Pain
Braces can irritate the lips in some individuals in the first few weeks. Lips get drier and can sometimes get raw. Apply a lubricant such as Vaseline to the lips, and place wax on the braces to protect the lips from the edges of the braces. If soreness lasts more than a few days and wax does not help, call our office and ask whether an emergency appointment should be scheduled.


Tooth Pain
When pressure is applied to the teeth, patients may feel some tenderness which usually persists for 2 to 3 days. The intensity and duration of the discomfort will vary with each patient. Usually analgesic medications like Advil™ or Tylenol™ will help lessen the discomfort significantly. If you feel an unusual amount of pain or discomfort, please call the office immediately.


Bent and Broken Appliances
PLEASE DO NOT WAIT UNTIL YOUR NEXT APPOINTMENT – CALL IMMEDIATELY TO SCHEDULE A REPAIR APPOINTMENT.
If a broken appliance can be easily removed, take it out. If not, cover the irritating parts with wax or chewing gum.

However, when a wire is sticking out and wax does not help, you should call the office. If professional assistance is not available (e.g. after hours or holidays) then the wire can be cut with a small wire cutter. A broken appliance that does not cause any irritation does not usually require emergency attention – but you should still call the office to let us know about it!


Loose Headgear
If your headgear tends to fall off at night or cause any other problems, call our office for advice.


Allergic Symptoms
Although very uncommon, allergies to braces or other metal appliances can occur. Some patients are also sensitive to latex examination gloves. If allergic symptoms such as inflammation and skin rashes appear, you should contact our office as soon as possible.


Tooth shifting/position changes
Orthodontic appliances are designed to move teeth in all directions. Sometimes teeth will move in a direction that seems to be wrong. Be patient. Usually this happens when tooth movement has just begun and only one direction of movement can be seen. Undesired tooth movement can occur also when braces come off, when the force being applied is too strong, or when wires are bent and damaged. Call our office to check whether an earlier appointment is necessary.


Gum Concerns
If oral hygiene is not properly maintained during orthodontic treatment, the gums may become swollen and start to bleed. Special care, including brushing the gums gently, flossing and rinsing with mouthwash or warm saltwater, usually helps return the gums to a healthy condition.

Use dental floss to check whether food is stuck between your teeth. Sometimes swollen gums are caused by the orthodontic movement of the teeth. If you have concerns about the health of your gums – please call our office right away.