Emergency Care & Common Problems
Emergency Care & Common Problems
Emergency Care
At Creekside Orthodontics, we understand that orthodontic issues can arise at any time, even outside of regular business hours. That’s why we’re here to provide solutions to common orthodontic problems you may encounter, allowing you to manage discomfort until your next appointment with our team.
If you find yourself needing assistance that can’t wait until your scheduled appointment, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Simply call our office during business hours at (707) 452-1111, and we’ll be happy to accommodate you with a sooner visit. Your comfort and oral health are our top priorities, and we’re here to support you every step of the way.
Common Orthodontic Problems
General Soreness
When you first have your braces put on, it’s common to experience some soreness in your mouth, with tender teeth lasting for three to five days. During this time, sticking to a soft diet can help alleviate discomfort while chewing. Additionally, rinsing your mouth with a warm salt-water solution can provide relief for irritated gums and sore spots. If the tenderness is severe, you can take Acetaminophen (Tylenol) for pain relief, but it’s best to avoid aspirin, Ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil), and Naproxen Sodium (Naprosyn, Anaprox) as they can slow tooth movement.
It’s normal for the lips, cheeks, and tongue to become irritated as they adjust to the presence of braces, usually lasting one to two weeks. Applying wax to the braces can help alleviate this discomfort, and we’ll be happy to show you how to do it during your visit. Your comfort is important to us, and we’re here to provide guidance and support throughout your orthodontic journey.
Loose Bracket or Band:
If your bracket or band is still attached to the wire, you should leave it in place and put wax on it if needed for comfort. If the bracket or band can be removed easily, place it in an envelope and save it to bring to your next appointment.
Poking Wire or Sharp Edge
- If a wire is poking or causing discomfort, you can use a clean pair of nail clippers to carefully trim the wire.
- Alternatively, using a pencil eraser, push the poking wire down or place wax on it so that it is no longer poking.
Loose Wire
Using a pair of tweezers or needle-nosed pliers, try to put your wire back into place. It is okay to use a piece of floss to tie the wire into place: tie the floss around the bracket in place of the missing colored o-ring. If you cannot put the wire into a comfortable position, and covering the end with wax doesn’t help, as a last resort use a small fingernail clipper to clip the wire behind the last tooth to which it is securely fastened. If the end of the wire is still sharp place wax on it.
Headgear
If you’re experiencing discomfort with your headgear, it may be due to not wearing it as instructed by your orthodontist. Please follow the guidelines provided by your orthodontist for wearing your headgear correctly. If you notice that the facebow (metal piece) is bent or causing discomfort, don’t hesitate to contact our office for assistance. Remember, the headgear should become more comfortable the longer you wear it, so make sure to adhere to the prescribed number of hours recommended by your orthodontist.
ADJUSTING THE PALATAL EXPANDER
The palatal expander “expands” (or widens) your upper jaw by putting gentle pressure on your upper molars each time an adjustment is made. The animation below will instruct you about when and how to adjust your expander. When you achieve the desired expansion, you will wear the appliance for several months to solidify the expansion and to prevent regression.
You can also download these instructions in a printable PDF document.
Step 1
In a well-lit area, tip the patient’s head back.
Step 2
Place the key in the hole until it is firmly in place.
Step 3
Push the key toward the back of the mouth. You will notice the fender will rotate and the new hole will appear. The rotation stops when the key meets the back of the expander.
Step 4
Press back and down toward the tongue to remove the key. The next hole for insertion of the key should now be visible.
For more information about the types of braces we offer, please contact us at 707-452-1111 today!
2070 Peabody Rd #700
Vacaville, CA 95687
Phone
Hours
Monday 8:00am to 5:00pm
Tuesday 8:00am to 5:00pm
Wednesday 8:00am to 5:00pm
Thursday 7:30am to 4:00pm
Friday - Sunday Closed