Current Patients
Just In Case
Orthodontic emergencies are very rare, and most can be taken care of at home.
If an orthodontic appliance is causing bleeding, swelling, or infection, give us a call as soon as possible so we can see you and address the issue. If after-hours, feel free to reach us at our emergency number: (503) 495-3596 . If an emergency occurs during office hours then please call our office number (503) 468-3244 .
Consult the non-emergency relief guide below for any discomforts.
- Aching and discomfort- try soft foods for a time, and rinse your mouth with warm salt water.
- Food trapped in braces – tie a little knot in your dental floss and use it to jostle the food loose. A toothpick may also help.
- Rubber bands popping off- use a pair of sterile tweezers to pull it back on.
- Poking wires- use a pencil eraser or Q-tip to bend back into place.
- Irritation- Non-medical relief wax. Roll up a ball about the size of a pea and place it on the problem area.
- Loose bracket- give us a call and we’ll get you set up with the next steps
- Mouth Sores- O-base or Orajel topical anesthetic works well. Apply directly to sore using a cotton swab.
The Do’s and the Don’ts
DO
2. Cut fruits and vegetables into small pieces and chew them with your back teeth
3. Pull meat off bones before eating
4. Ask for a mouthguard if you play sports where there is a risk of being hit in the mouth
5. Come to every single appointment
6. Continue to see your dentist every 3-6 months
7. If you break or lose an appliance, schedule an appointment so we can get you fixed up
DON’T
2. Eat hard or sticky candy, including gum (even sugar free or non-stick)
3. Chew on pens, pencils, fingernails
4. Drink sugary or carbonated drinks
5. Eat hard chips, nachos, pretzels, hard crust bread (like bagels or french bread)
6. Eat nuts, corn nuts, popcorn, etc
7. Play with your braces or orthodontic appliances