We like to believe that there are no orthodontic emergencies. There are, however, unplanned occurrences, which may require unscheduled adjustments, visits or corrections. We can be reached 24 hours a day via answering service, should something come up.

In the event that you reach our answering service, please make sure to tell the operator which office and orthodontist you go to see. If anything should look or feel different than it did when you left your last appointment, please call us immediately to discuss it.

Should a bracket, band or other appliance begin to come loose, please call us to discuss this matter. We may choose to have you come right in, or decide that it is not urgent to correct the situation until your next appointment. Only we can make that decision so it is important to contact us even if you are not in pain.

Speaking of pain- most often orthodontic wax will soothe the irritated soft tissue from the edges of brackets or a long wire. Discomfort from initial placement or adjustment of braces often subsides in a few short days. You can take Advil, Aspirin or Tylenol to help this and you can take them about 30 min prior to meals to make eating more comfortable. Should your child need a note for the school nurse to administer prescribed medication, we will happily provide one.

Below is a diagram to help you communicate with us more effectively regarding your orthodontic appliances.