COVID-19

You will be happy to hear you may be able to handle many minor orthodontic issues at home. The following information is provided by the American Association of Orthodontists. Always call us if you have any questions or concerns!

Tools + Supplies

With these tools and supplies on hand, you will be prepared to handle the most common orthodontic issues

• Orthodontic relief wax
• Dental floss
• Disinfected tweezers
• Q-tips
• Salt
• Interproximal brush
• Toothpicks
• Non-prescription pain reliever (acetaminophen or ibuprofen)
• Topical Anesthetic (such as Orabase or Ora-Gel)

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 a rubber o-ring 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 contact your orthodontist to notify them and come up with a plan for repair. Note: self-ligating brackets don’t use o-rings.

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 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.

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.

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 tweezer 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.

Loose Braces or Bands

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

Download PDF

Be sure to follow up on Facebook or Twitter 

updated May 2021

At Barden Orthodontics patient health and safety is our priority. We understand that people are currently worried about the spread of viruses. We have always followed the strictest sterilization and sanitation protocols advised by OSHA to prevent the spread of pathogens and to ensure the health of both our patients and staff. We will continue to be proactive in our efforts to maintain a safe and healthy environment.

At Barden Orthodontics we promise:

• Use of state-of-the-art sterilization equipment.
• Strict use of cleaning and disinfection procedures in the treatment rooms.
• Multi-stage air purifiers from Surgically Clean Air. These purifiers remove particles and destroy small particles in the air, including viruses. These are installed in treatment rooms and reception area.
• Routine cleaning and disinfection of high touch, common areas.
• Touchless door entry. Just wave at the sensor and the door will open for you!
• Staff uses N95 or KN95 respirator masks and face shields in addition to the usual personal protective equipment when working with patients.
• Social distancing in the waiting room and use of plexiglass shields at the reception desk.
• The entire staff at Barden Orthodontics has reviewed the newest sterilization and disinfection protocols to protect patient health.

New for your appointments:

• Prior to the day of the appointment, our office will email you two forms (COVID-19 Supplemental Informed Consent and Supplemental Health Questionnaire). Please have the forms completed by the patient or guardian prior to coming to the appointment.
• Please brush and floss prior to your appointment. The tooth brushing station will be closed following recommendation by the AAO.
• We ask that only the patient, and a maximum of one guardian, come to the appointment to reduce the number of people in the office.
• Please wear a mask as you enter the building.
• Please use the hand sanitizer available when you enter the office.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention provides important and up-to-date information to the public and healthcare providers. We will continue to monitor this information and follow all necessary protocols to maintain the health and safety of our patients and staff. Thank you for your cooperation.

UPDATED April 2021 to reflect the newest office procedures in response to to COVID-19

For updates and messages follow us on Facebook