Emergencies

There is emergency contact info on office answering machine, directing patient to Dr. Peters or assistant on call.

Problems with your braces?

Loose bracket Call our office for us to determine what the best step is. If this happens over the weekend and there is something poking please call the emergency number.

Broken or poking wire

If a broken wire can be removed easily, remove the broken piece. If a wire slips out of its tube, replace the wire in the tube or under the tube hook with tweezers. If the wire still pokes, try to slide it over with your finger or put wax on it until we can see you in the office.

Tooth soreness

Soreness will occur off and on during orthodontic treatment. A dose of Tylenol or Ibuprofen that you take for a headache will help. Also, try to stick to softer foods during this time.

Traumatic accidents

Use ice immediately to reduce swelling. If the teeth are displaced and don’t fit together properly, arch wires are bent, or soft tissue is stuck in the braces, schedule an appointment immediately in our office, with your general dentist or oral surgeon.

Soft tissue impingement

Call our office for an appointment to make you more comfortable. Use wax to cover the sharp edge, temporarily.

Loose teeth

Loosening is common, as teeth must loosen before they can move. They will tighten following appliance removal.

Lost separators

If the separator falls out more than 1 day before your appointment please call us to have it replaced.

Irritated cheeks, lips, or tongue

Brackets may irritate soft tissues initially until the tissue toughens (as hands callous). Soft wax will ease the discomfort as does a warm salt water rinse.

Lost Retainers

Please call as soon as you lose your retainers.