With the following tools and supplies available, you will be able to handle the most common orthodontic issues:

• Orthodontic relief wax

• Interdental brush

• Toothpicks

• Cotton swabs

• Salt

• Disinfected tweezers

• Topical Oral Gel (such as AfthaMed or HyAl Gel)

• Analgesics (acetaminophen or ibuprofen).

An "elastic" is the tiny rubber band or sometimes a very thin wire (connector), which holds the orthodontic wire on the arm/bracket. If a rubber ring is detached, you can try putting it back in place using a pair of tweezers that you have disinfected. In case of a loose bracket, try and remove it with a pair of tweezers. If the wire connector comes out of the bracket but is not loose, you can bend it with the tip of a cotton swab or an eraser from pencil to eliminate irritation.

Some patients are prone to episodes of mouth sores. While braces do not cause them, they can be aggravated by irritation from brackets. One or more may appear in areas with ulcers on the cheeks, lips or tongue. This is not is an emergency, but it can be quite uncomfortable. Immediate relief can be achieved in two ways:

1. Gargles with lukewarm salt water (3-4 times / day) or

2. With the application of a small amount of local anesthetic (such as AfhaMed or HyAlGel) directly on the irritated surface using a cotton swab - reapply for as long as needed (for half an hour we do not consume liquids / food).

   If after a few days the discomfort persists, call the doctor's office for advice.

This usually means that there is inflammation in that particular area. Continue to keep the area clean by brushing gently with a soft toothbrush, using the interdental brush and rinsing with solutions. Bleeding usually indicates that you "forget" the specific area during brushing.

Sometimes braces or wires can irritate the inside of the mouth, especially when eating. A small amount of orthodontic wax can make an excellent ‘cushion’ between the metal and inside of the mouth. Just cut a small piece and shape it into a ball the size of a small pea. Squeeze the ball and place it on the metal surface (in a dry area) where it has caused irritation. The wax can be bought at any pharmacy.

Even though this is not considered an emergency it may cause discomfort or embarrassment to the patient wearing braces. Easy to resolve with the use of dental floss. Use an interdental brush (or toothpick if nothing else) to remove food trapped between your teeth and braces.

Occasionally, the end of a wire may fall out of place and may irritate the mouth. Use the tip of one cotton swab or a clean pair of tweezers and try to push the wire so that it is parallel with the tooth. If the wire cannot be moved to a comfortable position, cover it with orthodontic wax. In case of other problems with your wires during your treatment, please make sure to contact our office.

If the braces or bands are loose, call the office for information so that the team is ready to deal with problem at the next appointment. It is not considered an emergency, so do not worry.