Caring for braces during Corona Virus & social distancing
During this prolonged period of time we are all spending at home, it is possible that you may have an orthodontic problem. No need to worry! Our office may be temporarily closed, but we are still here for you over the phone during normal business hours.
Call our office during normal business hours M-F 8-5pm and you can speak to a team member and we can handle any issues over the phone.
There are some things that we can suggest you do if you find yourself in discomfort, however, you should always call us to share what is happening with your orthodontic treatments.
Tools you can count on:
- Orthodontic relief wax
- Dental floss
- Disinfected tweezers
- Q-tips
- Salt
- Interproximal brush
- Toothpicks
- Non-prescription pain reliever (acetaminophen or ibuprofen)
- Topical Anesthetic (Orabase or Ora-Gel)
Have you lost an O-Ring?
The O-ring is that tiny rubber band, or sometimes a metal ligature, that holds the orthodontic wire to the brace. If the rubber band comes off, you can use disinfected tweezers to put it back in place. If the metal ligature comes off or loosens, just remove it with the tweezers. If the wire ligature is sticking out and irritating your lip, it can be bent in with a q-tip or clean pencil eraser. If your metal ligature is sticking out or causing any problems, notify us and we can come up with a plan for repair.
Are you having any sort of discomfort?
Having discomfort during orthodontic treatment is to be expected, however it should not last more than a couple days. The age old trick of gargling warm salt water helps to clean and relieve minor pains. Over the counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen help to relieve discomfort. Always call us if your discomfort lasts any longer than a couple days.
Oh no, a protruding wire!
Sometimes the end of a wire can work itself out of the bracket and start to irritate your mouth. Use a Q-tip or tweezers to attempt to push it flat with the face of your tooth. If the wire is not cooperating, cover it with relief wax. If you’re having issues with wires, we are available during normal business hours to discuss possible solutions.
Mouth Sores = No Fun!
Some patients get mouth sores, while some do not. Braces are not the cause of these mouth sores, however irritation from the wires or brackets may further aggravate the mouth sores. Using a cotton swab to apply a topical anesthetic (like Ora-gel or Orabase) to the sore as needed can provide relief. If after a couple days, the discomfort has not subsided, call the office to talk about options.
Mouth Irritation?
It’s not unheard of for braces or the wires that come with them to cause a sense of discomfort to the mouth, especially when eating. Using a small amount of orthodontic relief wax between the metal and mouth creates a great barrier for relief. All you need is a pea size amount of wax, roll it into a ball, flatten the ball and place it over the entire irritating area. Wax can be purchased from any drugstore if you run out.
Loose braces, brackets or bands?
If your braces or bands start to loosen in any way, call Plymouth Orthodontics anytime Monday through Friday, from 8-5 and we will help you fix your issue in the best way possible.
We may not be able to meet in our office at the moment, but Plymouth Orthodontics is still here for you during your orthodontic treatment. Your smile journey is important to us!