Emergencies

Orthodontic treatment is not necessarily painful; however, you will have a bit of an adjustment period. You may experience some pressure or tenderness as your appliances reposition your jaws and/or your teeth.  This is common and will usually fade in a day or two.  Dr. Cusimano generally recommends soft foods for the first couple days to help you adjust to your new appliances.

Minor Issues

Loose Bracket

Sometimes you may experience a loose bracket or band or an appliance that has come loose. If the band or bracket is still attached to the wire, you can leave it and add wax to the bracket to prevent it from irritating the tissue in your mouth. If the bracket or band has come off, please save it and bring it to your next appointment. Please call to schedule an appointment to repair, although these are issues we want to take care of, they are not usually urgent and therefore will be scheduled when there is time to accommodate the repair. 

Poky Wire

If you experience a poky wire, we will do our best to appoint you soon to alleviate your discomfort. A poky wire is also something that you can take care of at home. If the poky wire has caused some abrasions to the tissue in your mouth, Dr. Cusimano recommends a warm saltwater rinse twice a day to help heal the tissue. Add one teaspoon of salt to an 8 ounce glass of warm water and rinse for about 30 seconds. 

It is normal for your teeth to feel a little loose, especially right after an adjustment.  We are, after all “moving” your teeth around. Sometimes you may experience tenderness as well – it should subside in a couple days. You may also take over the counter pain relievers to alleviate this discomfort.  If you experience discomfort that does not go away after a couple days or with the help of pain relievers, please call the office to be seen by Dr. Cusimano.

Major Issues

Please call the office immediately if you experience the following:

• Trauma or injury to the teeth or mouth

• Infection or swelling of the gums

• Severe, unmanageable pain in the mouth

If the office is closed, please call your dentist (or go to an emergency room if that is your only option).  Your dentist will have the best training to handle tooth and gum related issues and injuries.

Our office number is 208-467-4362