Emergency Instructions

Your health and comfort are extremely important to us. During the course of orthodontic treatment, we realize that you may experience a variety of issues or concerns. Typically, most of these are considered non-emergencies. However, we want you to be able to recognize when to seek immediate medical attention. The very best way to reach our office is by texting OR calling us at 919-338-5650. You can use that number to schedule appointments, ask questions, and check in for appointments.

Below is a list of non-emergency issues that may arise and common at-home adjustments that can be made to resolve any discomfort. You can contact our office by texting Or calling 9 l 9- 338-5650. We will assess your situation and see if you can wait until your next appointment or if we need to see you sooner.

If your braces (brackets) are rubbing against your lip or cheek and causing discomfort, you can place orthodontic wax on the bracket(s) causing the pain. Or you can gargle with warm salt water to assist that area in healing.

We appreciate you choosing us for your orthodontic needs!

Emergencies

If you experience any of the following emergencies, please contact our office by texting or calling 919-338-5650:

Trauma to the face, teeth or jaw (i.e. due to sports injury, fall, accident).
Sharp, excruciating pain.
Band (metal ring that wraps completely around a molar tooth) came off.
If you are experiencing swollen gums, with an abscess/fever, contact your general dentist immediately.

Non-Emergencies

POKEY BRACES/BRACKETS

LOOSE BRACES/BRACKETS

If your bracket or band (metal ring that wraps completely around a molar tooth) is loose, but still attached to the wire, leave it in place. Put wax on the bracket, if needed, for comfort.

If the bracket or band can be removed easily, place it in an envelope and save it for your next appointment. Please text or call 9 l 9-338-5650 to let us know so that we can add time to your next appointment.
If the bracket is one that is used for elastics, stop wearing elastics.

POKEY /LOOSE WIRE

If your wire has slid to one side, you can pull it back into place with needle-nosed pliers. Slide it back into the bracket slit or band tube on the back tooth.
If an individual metal tie is loose, you can use a pencil eraser to tuck the tail end of the wire back in place, underneath the bracket.
If you are unable to get the wire into a comfortable position, place wax on the wire for comfort. Text Or call 919-338-5650 for a non-emergency appointment.
If you are still in discomfort, use a small fingernail clipper to cut the wire. Be sure to cut the wire behind the back tooth.

POWER CHAIN OR COLORED O-RING CAME OFF

If one of your colored chains/o-rings has come off, leave it off. Depending on the timing of your next appointment, we may need to schedule an earlier appointment to replace the chain/o-ring.

LOST INVISALIGN TRAY

If you have your previous set of trays, you can use that set of trays until you are able to pick up a new set from our office. If not, do not worry. You can go 2-3 days without wearing trays. Wear the last tray you have until we can see you again. Text us at 919-338-5650 so we can assess and advise or order new trays.

INVISALIGN ATTACHMENT/BUTTON FELL OFF

You can actually go a few days without the button/attachment. Depending on the timing of your next appointment, we may need to schedule an earlier appointment to replace the attachment.