We understand the frustration that can be caused when your orthodontist’s office is closed. COVID-19 has closed offices across Pennsylvania in an effort to keep patients and their loved ones safe. We can’t wait to see our patients and their smiles soon! Until then, there are some important steps you can take when it comes to caring for your braces at home.

Please know: While we may be closed for physical appointments, we are still answering calls. Please do not hesitate to call our office if you have questions, concerns, or an emergency. You can reach us at 610-401-0559.

Watch What You Eat

Caring for your braces at home starts with watching what you eat, especially now! To prevent your braces from breaking in between your appointments, stay away from hard, chewy, or sticky foods. This means no gum, popcorn, gummy candy, taffy, or nuts, among other snacks. Also, drink water instead of sugary drinks and juices.

Get an Emergency Kit Together

If your wires or brackets do break, don’t panic! Small breaks or discomfort can be handled at home until we can get you into the office. To prepare, put an emergency kit together with common household care items, including:

  • Salt
  • Toothpicks
  • Q-Tips
  • Tweezers
  • Toothbrush
  • Dental floss
  • Non-prescription pain reliever

And don’t forget about orthodontic wax! It is probably the most useful item in your toolkit when it comes to caring for your braces at home. If you ever experience irritation from poking or prodding wires, a little bit of wax will help alleviate the discomfort. If a broken bracket leaves a wire exposed, you can remove the wire entirely if it makes you feel more comfortable.

The American Association of Orthodontists has put together a helpful article on ways you can fix common orthodontic issues at home. You can always call our office if you have questions or concerns!

Brush Regularly

Just because the world seems to be on hold doesn’t mean your dental hygiene should be too! Continue to brush your teeth multiple times per day. You should be brushing after every meal and rinsing your mouth if you eat or drink anything sugary. If you don’t, this sugar can lead to decay, cavities, and white spots after braces. We may not be able to check in on your smile now, but we’ll be able to tell if you fell behind on your brushing the next time you come into our office!

Keep Wearing Your Retainer

If you’ve had your braces removed, continue to wear your retainer. This is the most important step you can take to make sure your treatment stays on track when you’re caring for your braces at home. If your retainer is broken, we recommend purchasing a “boil and bite” guard. This will hold your teeth in position until we can see you again.

If you wear elastics, be sure to keep wearing those regularly too! If you run out, please call our office.

We Hope to See You Soon!

We can’t wait to see our patients again soon! If you’ve missed an appointment during this pandemic or are experiencing any discomfort, please call our office at 610-401-0559. We can add you to an ASAP call list so we can get you back on the schedule whenever we reopen.

Until then, take care of your smile, yourself, and your loved ones! We’re wishing all of you well.