Lost Separators (Spacers)
It is quite common for some patients to lose at least one separator prior to your banding appointment. Most of the time separators do NOT need to be replaced. This usually means that enough space has been created.
What to Do in Case of Emergency
Please call our office as soon as possible if you break or loosen any of your appliances. Even if you have a regular appointment scheduled, notifying us ahead of time allows us to set aside extra time for your repair.
Loose Brackets
Please call our office for advice if a brace or wire is loosened. Sometimes it is important to reglue the brace as soon as possible. If it is not bothering you, you may leave it as is. The colored elastic (small rubber band) will keep it attached to the wire. If the loose bracket is uncomfortable, take a toothpick or tweezers and remove the elastic from the four prongs on the bracket. Remove the bracket from the wire and tape it to a card or piece of paper and bring it to your repair appointment.
Loose Bands
A band is the metal ring that is cemented to your back tooth. Slide the loose band up off the tooth. Take a pair of fingernail clippers that have been washed with alcohol and clip the wire closet to the next bracket.
Wire Irritations
Sometimes discomfort caused by a wire on your braces can be resolved by moving the wire away from the irritated area with a cotton Q-tip or eraser end of a pencil. If the wire will not move, try covering the end of it with a small amount of wax. If you are unable to locate any wax, use a piece of sugarless gum! If the wire is painful, you may cut it with fingernail clippers. If you cannot fix the wire irritation, please contact our office for an appointment.
Discomfort with Orthodontic Treatment
During the first week after your braces are in place and routine adjustments are complete, you will likely feel some pain, soreness or discomfort. You may take Tylenol, Advil or any other non-aspirin pain relievers while you adjust to your new braces or appliances. A warm wash cloth or heating pad may reduce the soreness in your jaws.
Please contact our office for advice on any of these situations or others. We will accommodate you as soon as possible. If it is after hours or on the weekend, feel free to call Dr. Mibab’s mobile phone for emergencies. This number can be obtained by calling our office voicemail system at (770) 552-6800.