If you suffer from an orthodontic emergency in Potomac, Maryland, we stress the importance of calling Liang Orthodontics as soon as possible. Drs. Liang and Liang can get you back on track with your orthodontic treatment by correcting the issue. Please contact us at 301-983-3132 immediately if your appliance needs to be repaired, even if you already have an appointment scheduled with our orthodontists.
While you can avoid most orthodontic emergencies through proper care of your teeth and appliances – such as avoiding foods that can damage your appliances or wearing a sports mouth guard while playing sports – you should contact our office immediately if you experience an orthodontic emergency. We will be able to provide you with instructions on what to do until you can visit our practice and have your appliance repaired.
The most common orthodontic emergencies include loose brackets or bands, wire irritations or poking, lost separators, and general discomfort. We have included some basic information on these problems on this page.
- Loose Brackets or Bands – If your brackets, band, or wires become loose, please contact our office immediately so that our orthodontists can repair or refit your appliance. You may need to slide off one of your brackets before you can come into our office, or remove one of your wires.
- Wire Irritations or Poking – If the wires of your braces are irritating your cheeks and gums, you can temporarily resolve the issue by moving the wire away from the irritated area. Cotton swabs, erasers, and wax work well to provide barriers between your wires and the irritated area. If the wire remains painful and you cannot remove it, you can cut it with nail clippers or scissors that have been washed and sterilized in alcohol.
- Lost Separators – Lost separators are a frequent problem during orthodontic treatment. If you lose one of your separators, call our office to see if it needs to be replaced.
- Discomfort with Braces – It is normal to feel discomfort for up to a week after your braces are placed, and for a day or so following an adjustment. You can relieve your discomfort by using a warm washcloth or a heating pad. If necessary, you may also use a mild pain reliever. If your soreness and discomfort continue beyond a few days, please contact our office.
Please contact our office as soon as possible if you have an orthodontic emergency. We are here to provide the care you need!
