What is an
Emergency?
Most problems during orthodontic
treatment are not emergencies but can be managed with a little
knowledge
If after reading the advice
below, you remain unsure on what to do, please contact Reception on
01235 559269 or email
info@pcortho.co.uk with a good description of your concerns and
we can advise you on an individual basis. Please do not just
turn up at the practice as we may not be able to see you and it
could be a wasted journey.
Discomfort/Pain
As you will have been advised discomfort
is to be expected after having braces first fitted and less so after
adjustment visits. Management can be anti-inflammatory medication
following manufacture's directions and a soft diet. Tenderness
normally becomes manageable after 2-3 days.
Rubbing /Ulcers
Use of silicone wax as shown at your fit
appointment on any part of the appliance can minimise any irritation. If ulcers appear management
with an anti-septic mouthwash, keeping a clean mouth and surface
pain relief will encourage quick repair. Also ensure there is plenty
of vitamin C in the diet.
Swollen Gums
This is usually caused by poor oral
hygiene; follow the instructions given at your fit appointment,
making full use of inter space brushes and the tufted end of your
toothbrush behind the wire. Use of a fluoride free mouthwash daily
will also help.
Allergic /Hypersensitive Reaction
A true allergic reaction is rare, (Nickel
sensitivity rarely causes a problem) with symptoms of burning
sensation, metallic taste, swelling and soreness of the tongue,
difficulty breathing. If this is the case contact Reception for
appliance removeal or out of hours contact NHS England on 111
Lost Elastic
No immediate action is needed; keep your
scheduled next visit.
Loose Bracket
Occasionally a bracket can come detached
from a tooth but remains attached to the wire. If it is not causing
discomfort it can be left to your next scheduled visit.
If it causes discomfort:
Protruding Excess Wire
Cover with Wax, or trim carefully with
nail clippers if wire is thin.
Loose or Broken Wire/ Band or Spring
If the broken piece is loose, carefully
remove it with tweezers and contact the surgery. If not, cover
the part with Silicone Wax until your next scheduled visit.
Broken or lost Removable
Appliance/Retainer
Contact Reception at the earliest
opportunity to discuss whether an unscheduled appointment is needed
for a repair or replacement appliance and any associated
costs involved. In the meantime if possible continue to wear the
appliance as directed.
We recommend that retainers are worn
nightly for at least two years post end of active treatment and then
reduced wear for as long as you want straight teeth
Broken or partly unstuck bonded
retainer
Contact Reception at
the earliest opportunity for an appointment to review the situation
and be given options. In the meantime, wear your removable retainer
full time to cover any uncomfortable parts and keep the teeth fully
aligned until you can get to see us.