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In order to ensure the safety of our patients, our team and the community at large during the COVID-19 outbreak, we are adapting the way that we provide orthodontic treatment

Fairfax | Reston | Springfield

703-719-5828

Emergencies
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  • Orthodontist
  • Pediatric Dentist
  • Oral Surgeon
  • Meet The Doctors
  • About Us
  • Reviews
  • Resources
    • Patient Forms
    • Videos
    • Referrals
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Orthodontic Emergencies

Fairfax Braces Springfield Braces Reston Braces

DID YOU KNOW?

Most Orthodontic "Emergencies" Can Be Handled At Home! Keep reading for the American Association of Orthodontists' recommendation on handling different types of orthodontic emergencies. Try these solutions before giving us a call!

Tools + supplies: 

  • Orthodontic relief wax
  • Dental floss
  • Disinfected tweezers
  • Q-tips
  • Salt

 

orthodontic-emergencies

Lost o-ring

An o-ring is the tiny rubber band or sometimes a very thin wire (ligature), that holds the orthodontic wire in the bracket/brace. If rubber ligature should come off, you may be able to put it back in place using disinfected tweezers. If a wire ligature comes loose, simply remove it with the tweezers. If the wire ligature is sticking out into the lip but is not loose, it may be bent back down with a Q-tip or pencil eraser to eliminate the irritation. Should this happen, be sure to notify your orthodontist and come up with a plan for repair. Note: self- ligating brackets don’t use o-rings.

Protruding wire

Occasionally, the end of a wire will work itself out of place and can irritate the mouth. Use a Q-tip or clean tweezers and try 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. Should changes with your wires occur during this time be sure to contact your orthodontist to make them aware of the issue.

Irritation in mouth

Sometimes braces or wires can be irritating to the mouth, especially when eating. A small amount of orthodontic relief wax makes an excellent buffer between metal and mouth. Simply pinch off a small piece and roll it into a ball the size of a small pea. Flatten the ball and place it completely over the area of the braces causing irritation. Wax can be purchased at any drug store if you are unable to get some from your orthodontist during this time.

Discomfort

It’s normal to have some discomfort during orthodontic treatment as your teeth move, however it should not last longer than a couple days. Rinsing your mouth with warm salt water and taking over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, may alleviate some discomfort. If the discomfort lasts longer than a couple days be sure to call your orthodontist to discuss.

Mouth sores

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. Prompt relief may be achieved by applying a small amount of topical anesthetic (such as Orabase or Ora-Gel) directly to the ulcerated surface using a cotton swab - reapply as needed. If after a couple days the discomfort does not resolve, call your orthodontist to discuss.

Loose braces or bands

If the braces or bands have come loose in any way, call your orthodontist to determine appropriate next steps.

Learn more: aaoinfo.org/blog

Patient Love 😍

I began taking my daughter Meena to Lets Smile Dental since she was about 3 or 4 years old (she is turning 7 this year). I was forced to switch dentists because the practice we were with before dismissed my daughter as a client due to "behavioral issues".

My daughter has a long history of dental issues and has had many painful dental procedures since she was 1 1/2 yrs old. She does not have behavioral issues- she has fear. She wasn't running around the office making a mess of things or acting badly; she was afraid, would cry, and didn't want to open her mouth. Pretty common for a pediatric practice of any kind. That so-called pediatric dental practice left a bad taste in my mouth and I was hesitant to take her anywhere else.

When I called Let's Smile, I let them know from the start that my daughter had major anxiety when it came to the dentist due to her history and that it may be difficult to treat her. This dental practice did not disappoint. Every single staff member has been so patient with Meena. Dr. Brown is Meena's current dentist and she is phenomenal. She works so closely with me when it comes to Meena's treatment plan, and she has helped us get a possible diagnosis for the issues Meena has with her teeth.

My daughter went from not opening her mouth and kicking and screaming to saying "I love Dr. Brown. I love my dentist". I never thought I would see the day where she would not only open her mouth willingly, but actually love her dentist. I can not thank them enough for all the loving care they have provided us over the years. We appreciate them so much!

Nicolette L.

Google Review

This is a great place! My son has Down Syndrome and the entire staff is understanding and flexible. They explain every step of the process to him and are patient with his questions. We love this practice!

Sarah K.

Google Review

I love this practice. Been doing Invisalign here for about 2 years now. The doctors and hygienists really make this place shine. They always help provide a deep sense of comfort for orthodontic patients. For something like orthodontics that can be very uncomfortable, they make this a very good experience.

The office staff do a great job as well. Any time that I call, I am always greeted with a friendly voice. When I show up for appointments, I am always provided a warm welcome.

One hygienist there, Maria, went above and beyond the call of duty during my appointment the other day. While she was removing aligner attachments from my teeth, she went ahead and cleaned off all of the coffee stains from the rest of my teeth. Not only are my teeth straight now, but they shine thanks to her.

All in all, the practice really lives up to its name, and if you are considering orthodontics, quit searching around and give this place a call!

arjunayost

Google Review

My 2-year old daughter had an absolutely amazing experience here! The office is warm and welcoming. The hygienist, Dana, was lovely. She showed us around and was very compassionate. Dr. Brown was friendly and took her time making my daughter feel comfortable. My daughter was actually sad to leave and cried in the parking lot! I am very thankful for this dental practice and I highly recommend it!

Julie R.

Google Review

I could not have been happier with my family's choice in an orthodontist. Dr. Ghatri has been phenomenal and always takes the time to know his patients. We have and will continue to recommend Dr. Ghatri and his team at Let’s Smile.

Kellie B.

Google Review

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Board Certified Orthodontist
American Association of Orthodontists
Let's Smile Is An Invisalign Diamond Provider
American Board of Pediatric Dentistry College of Diplomas Diplomate
American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry
ABPD-BoardCertified

Hours

Monday - Thursday:   
8:00 AM - 5:30 PM

Friday:
8:00 AM - 2:00 PM

Fairfax

4210 Fairfax Corner Avenue West
Suite 245
Fairfax, VA 22030

Services

Fairfax Orthodontics
Fairfax Pediatric Dentistry

Reston

1984 Isaac Newton Square West
Suite 200
Reston, VA 20190

Services

Reston Orthodontics

Springfield

6564 Loisdale Court
Suite 110
Springfield, VA 22150

Services

Springfield Orthodontics
Springfield Pediatric Dentistry
Springfield Oral Surgery

Are you in Fredericksburg? Visit our sister practice, ClearCare Dental!

ClearCare Dental

Let's Smile Dental : Orthodontics, Pediatric Dentistry, Implants in Fairfax, Springfield, Reston

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