Schools out and the weather is getting better and better as the days go on! Summer vacation is officially here!

Many kids go to sleep-away camp, travel, or visit family for a large part of the summer. Here are some helpful tips to help handle most orthodontic emergencies while you are away:

 As a general rule, always refer to your “No No Food List” if you have any questions. You should call your orthodontist when you experience severe pain or when you have a painful appliance problem that you can’t take care of yourself. Common issues include broken appliances, poking or sharpness from brackets and wires, and general soreness. While we always recommend that you consult us if you experience these issues, you may be able to temporarily solve many problems yourself until you’re able to visit our office. 

 The following solutions may help relieve discomfort:

• General soreness: When you get your braces on, it is very common for you to feel general soreness in your mouth, and teeth may be tender to biting pressures for three to five days. This can be relieved by rinsing your mouth with a warm saltwater mouthwash. Dissolve one teaspoonful of salt in 8 ounces of warm water, and rinse your mouth vigorously. If the tenderness is severe, take over the counter ibuprofen or other headache/pain relief medication.
• Poking wire: Placing wax on the poking edge of the wire is a great way to alleviate the discomfort. 
• Loose bracket or band: If your bracket or band is still attached to the wire, you should move it over to the next stable bracket and put wax on it. If the bracket comes out entirely, wrap the bracket in a tissue or put it in a baggy. If you still are in discomfort, call your orthodontic office for further assistance.

*Feel free to stop into our office during normal business hours to pick up extra wax!*

 Remember, after alleviating your discomfort it is still very important that you call your orthodontic office as soon as possible to schedule a time to repair the problem. Most important, stay calm and know that these things do happen and you can still have fun! Hope everyone has an amazing summer time!

If you know anyone that is interested in braces or invisalign and would like to set up a consultation, give our office a call at 425.883.3353