- Overview
- Quick Fixes: What Can I Handle at Home?
- When Do I Need An Emergency Appointment?
- What If My Teeth Feel Loose or Sore?
- How Do I Fix a Poking Wire?
- What If A Bracket or Band Is Loose?
- What Do I Do If I Lose My Retainer?
- Avoid Roadblocks and Stay on Track
- Lilli Orthodontics Reviews
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Visit a Lilli Orthodontics Location Near You
- Book Now
- Related Treatments
While true orthodontic emergencies are luckily rare, we know that a poking wire or a loose bracket on your braces can feel like a major roadblock. But don’t worry. The Lilli Orthodontics team is here to keep your smile journey on track.
Quick Fixes: What Can I Handle at Home?
Good news! You can handle many common issues yourself while waiting for your next visit. Here is your guide to staying comfortable.
When Do I Need An Emergency Appointment?
Take a deep breath. Most "emergencies" are usually just small bumps in the road that can be handled with a quick at-home fix. However, you should call us right away if you experience:
- Intense Pain: Discomfort that doesn't improve with salt water rinses or over-the-counter relief.
- Infection or Trauma: Swollen, bleeding gums or an injury to the mouth or face.
- Injury-Causing Breakage: A broken part of your metal braces that is cutting your cheeks or tongue.
Note: If you have a severe injury to your face or jaw, please head to the nearest emergency room first!
What If My Teeth Feel Loose or Sore?
Don't panic. It’s totally normal for teeth to feel a little "wiggly" as they move into their new, beautiful positions. Minor soreness after an adjustment is also common.
- The Fix: Use a warm salt water rinse or standard over-the-counter pain relievers (as directed) to feel better fast!
How Do I Fix a Poking Wire?
A wire that is irritating your cheek can often be tucked back into place.
- The Fix: Use a clean pencil eraser or a cotton swab to gently push the wire away from the sore spot. Cover the end with a small pea-sized ball of orthodontic wax.
What If A Bracket or Band Is Loose?
If the bracket is still attached to the wire but "floating," it’s usually not an emergency and can also be taken care of easily.
- The Fix: Use wax to keep it from sliding around or irritating your lip. Give us a call, and we’ll let you know if we need to see you sooner than your next scheduled visit.
What Do I Do If I Lose My Retainer?
This is one situation where you shouldn’t wait!
- The Fix: Call us immediately. Whether you use Vivera™ retainers or a more traditional style, your retainer is the key to keeping your teeth in their new positions. We want to get you a replacement before your teeth start to move back.
Avoid Roadblocks and Stay on Track
A little caution goes a long way in keeping your treatment smooth and worry-free. Here are a few tips to help you get (and stay) on the right track:
- Watch What You Eat: Avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky treats that can "pop" a bracket off.
- Play it Safe: Always wear a mouthguard during sports to protect your teeth and your metal braces!
- Keep it Clean: Brushing and flossing daily prevents gum irritation that can lead to discomfort.
Lilli Orthodontics Reviews
2 years of braces!!! It was a painful and trying experience in the beginning for sure. I’ve always hated my teeth growing up. I had to get a bite plate in the beginning to shift my jaw to fix my overbite and it was horrible. But you have to trust the process. I started with Dr. Woodard and then it shifted to Dr. Lilli. Amazing staff, atmosphere, and Dr. Lilli is so great! Absolutely appreciated everyone there and my experience and making me feel welcome always. Thank you for making me love my smile.
They quickly become friends! Wonderful staff, treatment was easy and they really listened to what I wanted.
I always look forward to my appointments with these wonderful people ! Dr. Lilli and her team have naturally created a welcoming and thoughtful practice that provides beautiful results. I love sitting in Kailey and Miriam’s chair for my follow ups with the chit chat in between. Great suggestions are made following any comments, questions, or concerns. The whole staff here are diligent in ensuring you are taken care of. Would recommend people to choose this place for their orthodontic journey !
Everyone was so pleasant and professional. I was very comfortable and enjoyed the experience. Reasonable pricing as well. A great combination 😊!
I got my braces about a month ago and my journey has been fantastic and I’m about to get my bottom braces! The thing I like about lilli orthodontist is that they answered all the questions I asked them and they warned me about what might hurt and it was true and they did amazing
313
Total Reviews
5
Star Average Rating
Frequently Asked Questions
My spacer fell out, is that okay?
Yes! Spacers often fall out once they’ve created enough room. Call our office, and we’ll let you know if you need to pop in for a new one or if you’re good to go.
How do I get food out of my braces?
Flossing is your best friend! Use a water flosser or an interdental brush (those tiny "Christmas tree" shaped brushes) to gently clear away any stubborn bits of food in a snap.
Visit a Lilli Orthodontics Location Near You
Chesapeake Office
1403 Greenbrier Parkway, Suite 420
Chesapeake, VA 23320
(757) 523-0114
Suffolk Office
5833 Harbour View Blvd., Suite A
Suffolk, VA 23435
(757) 686-3955
