Emergency Care
No "models" were used. All patients shown are our actual patients. Together we'll create a beautiful smile. While there are very few true orthodontic emergencies, please be assured that
we will address any problems occurring between your regularly scheduled
appointments. If you are experiencing any discomfort during normal office
hours, please contact our office to schedule an appointment. Dr. Gilbert sets
aside special time in his schedule to address these situations. If it is after
hours or on a weekend, please call our office and follow the recorded
instructions.
Until you have the opportunity to schedule an appointment, there are several
at-home solutions to alleviate minor discomfort. However, in the unlikely case
of discomfort that you cannot manage, please do not hesitate to contact our
office for additional instructions.
Tips to Relieve Minor
Discomfort:
Generalized Soreness
It is not unusual to experience general soreness in the mouth for a few days
after appliances are placed or after an adjustment visit. Should this occur,
use a salt water rinse several times a day (never use more than 1/4 teaspoon of
salt to 10 ounces of warm water). You may also try a pain reliever that you
would normally take for a headache.
Localized Sore Spots
Until your mouth becomes accustomed to your braces or an appliance, you
may develop a sore spot to the lips, cheeks or tongue. Please be assured that
this is not uncommon and that these areas should toughen as your mouth becomes
used to your braces. Apply soft dental wax to the area to provide temporary
relief.
Poking Wire
With a pencil eraser or handle of a spoon, carefully tuck the wire down close
to the gum. You may also use a small fingernail clipper to clip the wire. If
necessary, apply a small piece of soft dental wax on the area.
Loose or Broken Bands or Brackets
There may be times that a bracket, band or wire becomes loose or broken.
Place a small amount of soft dental wax to the area to alleviate any
discomfort. Please call our office on the next business day for further
instructions and to schedule an appointment, if needed.
*Please do not allow any appliance to remain loose or broken
over an extended period of time as it may stop, reverse or extend the length of
your treatment.
Brushing and flossing
Good oral hygiene is very important for the health of your teeth and for your
own overall comfort during the treatment process. Dr. Gilbert and his staff
remind you to floss, brush, and rinse as instructed and continue 3 to 6
month checkups with your family dentist.
If you have an accident involving the mouth and teeth,
we ask that you contact our office or that of your family dentist
immediately
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