Our goal is to be sure our patients are prepared for any small inconveniences that may arise with their orthodontic treatment while we work together to eradicate coronavirus from our population. Here is a list of questions and easy solutions to some of the more common issues you may encounter.
I HAVE A LOOSE BRACKET:
If a bracket is loose and sliding on the wire, attempt to gently remove it by removing the small colored elastic with a clean pair of tweezers and cuticle scissors. If it cannot be removed and is causing irritation, place a small piece of wax over the bracket to act as a cushion.
MY WIRE IS POKING:
For a poking wire, use the eraser of a new, clean pencil to attempt to tuck the wire back in. If the area is accessible, use a clean pair of nail clippers to clip the wire and remove the poking piece. Otherwise, place wax to act as cushion.
MY WIRE HAS COME OUT OF THE BACK BRACKET:
With a clean tweezer, you can attempt to replace the wire into the back bracket or tube. If you are unable, either use a clean pair of nail clippers to clip the wire behind the last bracket to which it is attached, or cover the poking wire with wax.
I AM WEARING ELASTICS:
Keep wearing the elastics as instructed. Tooth movement is a slow process and there is little to no chance that your teeth will move "too far". Remember to wash your hands before placing and removing your elastics. If you run out of elastics, leave a message on the office voice mail and we will attempt to mail you a new bag.
I AM WEARING INVISALIGN:
Keep changing your aligners as scheduled. if you reach then end of your aligner sequence or the last aligner you have at home, continue to wear the last set until we resume regular office hours.
MY CHILD HAS AN EXPANDER
If you are actively turning the expander, continue for the number of turns requested and then STOP. Do not continue to make turns until we have scheduled you an appointment to evaluate the progress
MY RETAINER IS CRACKED:
A cracked retainer can usually be used in the meantime until a new one can be made if there is a sharp edge use a clean emery board to smooth or file the offending edge.
If you have a more serious issue please contact the office via email or voice mail and we will address your concerns.
​
​
​