Most frequent incidents are the following:
It’s normal for a patient to have discomfort after bracket placement for the next few days and a day or two after braces or retainers are adjusted. But it can make eating uncomfortable.Τhe discomfort is both normal and temporary. Soft foods are preferred.. If you experience pain, then a pain killer you have used in the past is appropriate. Pain killers that contain acetaminophen or ibuprofen may be effective. Your Orthodontist will provide you with appropriate instructions.
Some patients are susceptible to episodes of mouth sores. While braces do not cause them, they may be precipitated or exacerbated by an irritation from braces. One or several areas of ulceration of the cheeks, lips or tongue may appear. This is not an emergency, but may be very uncomfortable for the patient. Prompt relief may be achieved by applying a small amount of topical soothing gel directly to the ulcerated surface using a cotton swab, and some wax on the bracket you think is causing the sore.
Occasionally, the end of a wire will work itself out of place and irritate the patient’s mouth. Use something soft like a pencil eraser to push the wire so that it is flat against the tooth. If the wire cannot be moved into a comfortable position, cover it with relief wax and inform your Orthodontist.In a situation where the wire is extremely bothersome and the patient will not be able to see the orthodontist anytime soon, you may, as a last resort, clip the wire.Directions will be given to you by your Orthodontist in order not to hurt yourself or your orthodontic appliances.
Relief wax may still be necessary to provide comfort to the irritated area.
If the braces have come loose in any way, the parent/guardian needs to be notified, and they should call the orthodontist to determine appropriate next steps.
The bracket can be knocked off if the patient has eaten one of those hard or crunchy foods orthodontic patients are instructed to avoid, or if the mouth is struck while at play. (All patients, especially those with braces, should wear a protective mouth guard while playing sports.)
