Tuesday, January 31, 2012

MCO Markham Orthodontist Discusses Orthodontic Emergency Care

Your Markham and Stouffville Orthodontist knows that on occasion, there can be some orthodontic emergencies that occur.  However, as a general rule, there are few true emergencies that cannot wait until the clinic has an appointment available for you.  Common issues include broken appliances, poking or sharpness from brackets and wires, and general soreness.
If something occurs, you should call the office or email us to let us know about your issue.  After hours, in an extreme emergency, you can contact Dr. Tam directly.


The following solutions may help you relieve discomfort:
  • General soreness: When you get your braces on, it is very common for you to feel general soreness in your mouth, and teeth may be tender to biting pressures for three to five days. This can be relieved by rinsing your mouth with a warm salt water mouthwash. Dissolve one teaspoonful of salt in 8 ounces of warm water, and rinse your mouth vigorously. If the tenderness is severe, take over the counter aspirin or other headache/pain relief medication.  The use of Tylenol is advised over Advil/Ibuprofen.
  • Poking wire: Placing wax on the poking edge of the wire is a great way to alleviate the discomfort.  You can also use the wire cutter provided to you in your care kit.
  • 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 the wire comes out entirely, wrap the bracket in a tissue, and call our office immediately. Remember, after alleviating your discomfort, it is still very important that you call our office as soon as possible to schedule a time to repair the problem.
  • Broken or lost retainers:  It is important to let the office know as soon as possible so that you can have your retainer repaired or replaced.  Teeth will shift very rapidly out of alignment without retainers in as little as a few days.
As per our office policies, comfort visits will be booked whenever we have an opening.  It may not always be possible to book you a visit after work/school/Saturday since most visits are booked up 8 weeks in advance.

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