Sore teeth after braces or an adjustment
Tenderness for a few days is normal. Soft foods help, and an over-the-counter pain reliever used as directed on the label may ease discomfort.
Patient help
Comfort Appointments
Ouch! Problems with braces can be uncomfortable-call us and we'll get you fixed up.
Minor
Loose or broken bracket
Broken/loose brackets can happen. Call the office during business hours, and we'll get you in for a comfort visit or rebond the bracket at your next scheduled appointment.
Minor
Long or poking wire
Try nudging the wire flat with a fingertip and use wax over the end. Wires are sometimes left long on purpose to allow tooth movement. Call us — not your general dentist — if it stays uncomfortable and we'll clip it.
Call us
Loose expander, appliance, or retainer
Let us know during business hours and we'll get you in as soon as we can to make the appliance comfortable and keep your treatment on schedule.
Urgent
Trauma to the mouth or teeth
For a sports injury, fall, or hard contact to the face where teeth are broken, missing, or badly moved: contact your general dentist immediately, or an emergency room or urgent care after hours. Then call our office so we can coordinate your orthodontic care.
Reaching us
Call (402) 420-2400 during office hours and leave your name, a callback number, and a short description if you reach voicemail — we return calls as quickly as we can.
Mon–Thu 7:30am – 4:30pm · Fri 8:00am – 12:00pm. Friday is administrative only. Closed on major holidays.
Comfort at home
What to do about common braces discomfort.
Most braces problems are uncomfortable rather than urgent, and many can be eased at home until the office can see you.
This guidance doesn't replace professional care. If you're unsure, call the office during business hours.
Irritated cheeks or lips
Orthodontic wax over the bracket or wire end creates a smooth surface while the mouth adjusts. A warm saltwater rinse can soothe irritated spots.
When to call the office
Call during business hours for a loose bracket, a wire that keeps poking, or a loose appliance. You can also send us a message.
Avoiding problems
Hard, sticky and chewy foods cause most broken brackets. Wear a mouthguard for contact sports. Learn more about life with braces.