Q. Dr. Levy, both of my children are experiencing pain associated with braces and retainers. What can I do to help them?

Dr.Levy: Covering the wire that causes the irritation with a small cotton ball, piece if gauze or beeswax until you can get to a dentist is the wisest thing to do.

Q. I have had an accident and the wire from my braces is now stuck in my gum tissue. I don't know what to do.

Dr. Levy: You should go to see your dentist immediately. Do no attempt to remove it. And if an appliance becomes loose or it breaks into pieces, be sure to take the appliance and everything associated with it to the dentist.

Q. I have knocked out my my tooth. What should I do?

Dr. Levy: Rinse the tooth gently in running water to keep it clean. Do not remove any attached tissue fragments or scrub it. If possible insert the tooth gently and hold the tooth in its socket.

Q. What if the tooth does not remain in the socket?

Dr. Levy: Place the tooth in a cup of milk or if that is not possible, a cup of cool water. Get to the dentist immediately (within 30 minutes). By all means, bring the tooth.

Q.What should you do if you have broken your tooth?

Dr. Levy: With warm water cleanse the affected area gently. To decrease swelling place a cold compress on the face in the area of the injured tooth.

Q.I have bitten my tongue and it is now bleeding. Should I go to the emergency room?

Dr. Levy: With a clean cloth, apply direct pressure to the bleeding area. To decrease the swelling apply a cold compress on the face in the area of the injury. Go to the emergency room if the bleeding does not cease.

Q.I have something caught between my teeth and can't get it out. What should I do?

Dr. Levy: Use floss to remove objects that are caught between your teeth. Avoid cutting the gums by guiding the floss carefully. If the object is still caught between your teeth go see your dentist. And don't use a pointed instrument to remove anything between your teeth. Flossing is the best method.