Emergency Info in Greensboro, NC
Straight A Orthodontics offers emergency info as a convenient service so that you can be prepared in the case of an emergency, particularly if an emergency occurs during off-hours.
What Should I Do in the Event of an Emergency?
We offer an emergency checklist to help our patients, especially when we are not open. However, if you break or loosen any of your orthodontic appliances, it is imperative that you call our staff at Straight A Orthodontics immediately, and we will assist you as best as possible.
What if my Brackets or Bands Become Loose?
If a bracket or wire is loosened, call our office, and we will help you over the phone. We will talk to you to determine if it must be refitted or removed, or if there is something you can do at home to help remedy the issue and any discomfort. If immediate action is needed, you can cut your wire at home to remove a loose end, but call us first thing the next morning to help you fix it more permanently.
How Can I Soothe Wire Irritation from Braces at Home?
We provide you with wax, which most of our patients find the most useful for maintaining comfort at home. If you have some irritation from your wires, you can also try using a cotton swab (or even an eraser) to move the wire away from the irritated area.
What if I Lose a Spacer or Separator?
Don’t worry! Patients often lose a spacer or separator, just call our office right away so that we can replace it as soon as possible.
How Can I Prevent and Treat Discomfort from Braces?
Applying wax to brackets or taking over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or other non-aspirin pain relievers, can be used to help with the tooth pain. If your jaw is sore after an adjustment, consider a heat pack or warm washcloth compress on the area.
I Experienced Dental Trauma, What Can I Do?
In any traumatic event, please contact our office immediately if one or more teeth are unusually loose or pushed into another position. If a tooth is knocked out, you should seek treatment within 30 minutes. If your lip or a portion of your cheek has been caught in braces or appliances, carefully try to free it as soon as you can.
Can I Save a Tooth That’s Been Knocked Out?
To save a knocked-out tooth, first, pick it up, being careful to hold it by the crown (or top) and not the root, which is much more delicate. Rinse the tooth with water, but don’t clean or handle it any more than necessary. Put the tooth back in the socket, holding it in place with your fingers, or a clean piece of gauze or cloth, or gently biting down. If you can’t reinsert the tooth, store it in a cup filled with milk or water, or in the mouth next to the cheek, to keep the tooth moist at all times. Also, please call your dental professional immediately