Emergency Orthodontic Information

Lyndon S. Low, DDS, MS - Orthodontics provides excellent orthodontic treatment for children, teenagers, and adults. Located in Stockton, CA, our practice's top priority is to provide the finest orthodontic results using advanced dental technology. We are committed to creating a significant improvement in the dental health and appearance for each of our patients.

What to do in case of emergency

If you break or loosen any of your appliances call our office at 209.478-4666. Please do not come directly to the office. By calling us, you allow us to create a time to see you. Even if you have a regular appointment scheduled, call us in advance to notify us if you need an appliance repaired.

Loose Brackets or Bands

Call our office for advice if a brace or wire is loosened. The brace may need to be re-fitted or reapplied. You may have a situation that requires cutting a wire or sliding a bracket off a wire at night or over the weekend. If you need to cut a wire in case of emergency, you may use fingernail clippers that have been washed and sterilized in alcohol. Please call our office the next business day so that we may schedule an appointment for you.

Wire Irritations

Sometimes discomfort caused by a wire on your braces can be resolved by moving the wire away from the irritated area with a cotton swab or eraser. If the wire will not move, try covering the end of it with a small piece of cotton or a small amount of wax. If the wire is painful, you can cut it with nail clippers or small wire cutters that have been washed and sterilized in alcohol. If you cannot resolve the wire irritation, call our office for an appointment.

Lost Separators

Separators are often placed at the beginning of orthodontic treatment to make room for fitting of braces. Do not worry about losing a separator, but do call our office to see if it needs to be replaced.

Discomfort with Orthodontic Treatment

During the first week after your braces are in place and routine adjustments are complete, you will likely feel some pain, soreness, or discomfort. You may take acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Advil), or other non-aspirin pain relievers while you adjust to your new braces. A warm wash cloth or heating pad may reduce the soreness in your jaws.