Emergency Info
First Aid For Retainers or Braces In North Hollywood
Although it is unlikely that a situation should arise where your orthodontic braces break or become damaged, accidents do happen. To reduce the risk of such events, it is highly recommended that you wear a mouth guard when participating in contact sports and that you avoid hard or sticky foods and raw vegetables. Regardless of how your dental braces or retainer become damaged, the following should correct the problem and alleviate any associated pain. Should it fail to either remedy your situation or address your specific problem, please call our office at 818-980-5300 to speak with one of our staff members.
Wire
If a wire is poking you, first try to bend it with a spoon or a pencil eraser. If unsuccessful, place a small piece of wax or wet cotton over it until you can get in for an appointment. If the archwire comes out of a tube, gently try to place it back with tweezers. If discomfort persists, place wax over it and call to schedule an appointment.
Bracket/Band
If a bracket or band is loose and still attached to the archwire, leave it in place. If it becomes uncomfortable, cover with wax and call for an appointment. If it comes completely out, bring it with you to your next appointment. Do not attempt to connect headgear or elastics to a loose band.
Teeth
If your teeth are sore after an orthodontic treatment, take acetaminophen (Tylenol®) or ibuprofen (Advil®) as recommended. Also, rinsing your mouth with warm salt water can help sooth sore gums. Plan to eat soft foods until the discomfort subsides - usually within 48 hours. If the pain persists or intensifies over the next 4 days, call us.
Rubber Spacer
If a rubber spacer falls out, you can try to replace it yourself by simply threading a couple pieces of floss through it, pulling under and up between your teeth. Remember to remove the floss.
Blood
If you experience any bleeding while either brushing or flossing, it usually means there is a local area of infection. Continue to keep the area clean by brushing and flossing, as well as by rinsing with a mouthwash such as Listerine®. Should a particular area be especially painful, or if you notice a bump of any sort, please call Dr. Sands or Dr. Fotovat as soon as possible.
If a part of your braces should break away, save the piece and call to set up a repair visit. If a retainer breaks, please do not attempt to fix it yourself. Call our practice, and we will repair it.
If you notice small spaces developing between your teeth while wearing braces, don't panic! They will eventually close. Spaces are to be expected, especially in the early stages of treatment, as your teeth move into different positions. It's the first sign that you're well on your way to healthy smile!
Emergencies resulting from braces are rare and are usually not anything to worry about. Healthy teeth and gums resulting from dental braces are common and always something to treasure.
It's never too late and it's rarely too early to enjoy the many benefits associated with braces. You don't have to live with less than perfect teeth. Regardless of your age, our office located on Laurel Canyon Blvd. in Valley Village, has an orthodontic treatment that is sure to put a smile on your face. Our Valley Village office is close to several freeways, and an easy drive from North Hollywood, Studio City, Burbank, Sherman Oaks, Van Nuys, Pacoima, Sylmar, Toluca Lake, Glendale and Sun Valley. Set up an appointment for a free complimentary initial consultation.
