After Hours Orthodontic Emergencies
- Severe pain (not responding to over the counter medication or wax)
- Trauma
- Swelling
- Bleeding
If you are experiencing significant pain during our regular business hours, please call the office. If you are experiencing a major orthodontic emergency after hours resulting in any of the above and are unable to manage at home, please use the office help text line (905) 650-7918 and we will contact you as soon as possible.
While uncomfortable, a broken bracket, wire poke or loose retainer does not qualify as a major emergency.
Please contact the office main office line (905) 356-7919 by phone or text and we will schedule an appointment.
We also have the following tips available for your reference
Orthodontic Discomfort
- Broken Brace
- Poking wire
- Broken retainer (wire)
A brace may come loose or the wire may poke and cause some discomfort. Unless there is uncontrolled bleeding, this is not an orthodontic emergency.
Please call our office to leave a message and you will be scheduled for repair the next business day.
Also, refer to the tips below
Wax
Applying wax can be helpful to alleviate the discomfort of a sharp wire or loose bracket. Place it over the area of concern until you can get in for an appointment. If you require extra wax, it is available for you.
Loose Bracket
A loose brace is not an orthodontic emergency. Apply some wax to the area and call the office to schedule a repair.
If it’s the last brace in the back, you may attempt to cut the wire. Sterilize a fingernail clipper with alcohol or boiling water and cut, remove the wire.
Loose/Poking Wire
If a part of the wire is sticking out, you may take a pair of clean tweezers to place it back. If you are unable to do so, you may apply wax over the are or cut and remove the wire using the tips above.
Loose Retainers
Lost or broken retainers should be replaced or repaired within a few days to limit shifting. Please call our office next business day should this happen. If the retainer is sharp or uncomfortable, apply wax to the area.
Sore Teeth/Discomfort with Orthodontic Treatment
Teeth sometimes will have some initial soreness after the braces are first applied or adjusted. Generally, acetaminophen (Tylenol if not allergic) or other non-aspirin pain relievers for a couple of days will help. Please call the office if your discomfort lasts more than 5 days. You can also gargle lukewarm salt water, which is a mixture of one teaspoon of salt dissolved in eight ounces of water. A warm washcloth or a heating pad may also reduce the soreness in your jaws.
Lost Separator
A separator elastic may fall out. Please come to your next appointment 15 minutes early and let our front desk know when you arrive.