Be Prepared for Anything
At Botsford Family Orthodontics, we know that emergencies can happen, but don't worry-we've got your back!
While true orthodontic emergencies are rare, we want you to feel comfortable, calm, and prepared for anything during your smile journey.
Here to Help
Remember that your Botsford Family is always here to help. Below, we've detailed some of the basic issues that can happen during any orthodontic treatment. We've also included some helpful hints on how you can treat some of these issues until your next appointment.
And if you're every extremely uncomfortable or have any questions, please let us know. We're more than happy to assist you and make sure you're comfortable throughout your orthodontic journey.
Feeling Soreness?
It's totally normal to feel a bit sore during your orthodontic treatment, especially after adjustments.
To ease the discomfort, stick to softer foods and rinse your mouth with warm salt water after meals. If you need to, you can take Ibuprofen or Tylenol (with your parents' approval) to feel better.
Dealing With Sore Spots?
Canker sores can sometimes pop up while wearing braces, and they can be super annoying. While there's no magic cure, you can make these sore spots less bothersome by putting some wax on the braces where it hurts. You can also try Orabase or Orajel for relief.
These sores usually go away within 7 to 10 days. If they don't, just give us a call.
Got a Poking Wire Tie?
If a wire tie starts poking your lip, don't panic. Just use the tip of an eraser to gently tuck it under the main wire. If it still bothers you, let us know, and we'll take care of it.
We also have a simple trick to help you out if you need to clip the wire at home:
- Wash your hands thoroughly.
- Use a small, clean pair of nail clippers or a wire cutter if you have one.
- Carefully sterilize the clippers or wire cutter with rubbing alcohol before using them.
- Gently slide the wire tie to the side, exposing the wire that's bothering you.
- Hold the wire with a cotton ball or tissue to avoid accidentally swallowing any loose pieces.
- Using the clippers or wire cutter, carefully cut the wire right where it extends past the last bracket that's securely attached to your teeth.
- If there are any sharp edges, use a clean cotton ball or some orthodontic wax to cover the edges and prevent irritation.
Had an Injury?
Sometimes accidents happen, and if you hurt your face or mouth, it might affect your braces. If your teeth feel loose or the appliance breaks, call us right away, and we'll get you an appointment.
And if you play sports, we can make you a cool mouthguard to protect your teeth and braces.
Lip Bumper Causing Sores?
If your lip bumper is causing discomfort, you can remove the bumper by pulling it forward. In cases where it's tied with elastic, cut the elastic first and then take off the bumper.
Contact our office during regular business hours to schedule an appointment for adjusting the bumper to a more comfortable position. Until then, avoid wearing the lip bumper.
Teeth Feeling Loose?
No worries if your teeth feel a bit wiggly during treatment! They need to loosen up before they can move to their new places.
Using Rubber Bands (Elastics)?
When you first start wearing rubber bands, your teeth might feel sore for a few days. Don't worry-that's normal! The soreness will go away as your teeth move. Keep wearing the rubber bands as we told you, and if you're not sure, please call us, and we'll help you out.
Appliance Doesn't Fit?
If your appliance doesn't fit right, don't try to force it. Call us during regular hours, and we'll set up an appointment to adjust it properly.
Missing or Broken Elastic Ties?
If you're missing or have broken your elastic ties, don't worry-these things happen!
Definitely give us a call during regular hours to set up an appointment for replacements. If you leave it be, your tooth might move away from the wire, and we don't want that.
Separator/Spacer Fell Out?
If your separator (spacer) falls out a day or two before your next appointment, no worries-you don't need to replace it immediately.
However, if the spacer falls out before that, contact our office during regular business hours to schedule a quick appointment for a replacement.
Uh-Oh, Broken Archwire?
If your archwire breaks, don't stress! Call us to schedule an emergency visit during regular hours, and we'll take care of it.
In the meantime, put some wax or wet cotton over the sharp area to stay comfy.
Bracket Got Loose?
If you notice a loose bracket or band poking your gums or cheek, put some wax over it to prevent irritation.
Give us a call, and we'll set up a repair appointment during regular hours. And don't forget to brush well around the loose part!
We've Got Your Back!
Remember that if you have any problems or questions during your treatment, we're just a phone call away at 541-779-3003. Dr. Botsford and our friendly team are here to help you out and keep your orthodontic journey smooth, comfortable, and awesome!