How can I help my child manage discomfort during orthodontic treatment?

For the first week after braces or clear aligners—or following adjustments—your child may feel soreness. You can ease it by having them swish with salt water (1 teaspoon in a cup of warm water), giving them acetaminophen or another non-aspirin pain reliever, applying a warm washcloth or heating pad, or offering a soothing treat like ice cream while they relax.

What’s the first step when my child complains of unusual pain or a problem?

Start by asking specific questions—Where is the pain? How long has it lasted? Did they use their mouthguard during sports? These details help determine the type of emergency and guide the next steps.

How do I best care for my child if they have a traumatic mouth injury?

If there’s bleeding or a knocked-out permanent tooth, you may need to head to the ER. For a knocked-out tooth, hold it by the crown, rinse it gently, and place it back in the socket, using a clean cloth to hold it in place, then call us immediately. If only soft tissue is injured, once healed, Dr. Black can resume adjustment where treatment left off.

What do I do about poking wires or wire irritations?

Try nudging the wire away with a clean cotton swab or pencil eraser. If needed, cover it with wax or a small piece of cotton. As a last resort, snip it with sterilized clippers. If irritation persists or you can’t resolve it, call us to schedule an appointment.

What should I do if a bracket or band becomes loose?

Contact us right away—Dr. Black may need to refit it. If it happens at night or on weekends, carefully slide the loose bracket off and keep it in a small plastic bag until your appointment.

My child lost a separator—what now?

It's common for separators to fall out during treatment. Just call our office to check if it needs replacement.

What if an elastic hook is poking and causing irritation?

Use a pencil eraser to gently push it back, or place orthodontic wax over the area to smooth it. If irritation continues, reach out to our office.

What should we do if my child’s face gets hit during a sporting event?

Schedule an appointment immediately to ensure their teeth and appliances are intact. If any appliance part broke off, bring it with you. And of course—always wear a sports mouthguard!

Meet Our Expert Pediatric Dentist - Dr. Cara Mudd

Our Doctors

Dr. Cara Mudd—Board-Certified Pediatric Dentist

A native of Colorado, Dr. Cara Mudd received her bachelor’s degree and D.D.S. from Creighton University in Omaha, Nebraska. After three years as a general dentist in Colorado, she was Dental Director in a rural community health clinic that treated uninsured and low-income children in Washington State. Dr. Mudd then completed a two-year post-doctoral residency in Pediatric Dentistry at the University of Washington, where she also served as Chief Resident. Dr. Mudd is Board Certified, American Board of Pediatric Dentistry.

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As a mother of two young boys, Dr. Mudd recognizes that every child has individual needs, and she takes pride in the compassionate, personalized care that she delivers to every child. In their spare time, Dr. Mudd and her family enjoy skiing, hiking, camping, biking and watching movies.

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Why did you get into Pediatric Dentistry?

Specializing in Pediatric Dentistry was a very easy decision. I had worked for several years in General Dentistry and while I enjoyed it, I found that treating children was highly rewarding. I was proud to be accepted for the Pediatric Dentistry residency program at the University of Washington and have enjoyed every moment of having my own practice back home here in Colorado. Now I get to see kids all day!

How has motherhood helped you professionally?

Having two little boys is a lot of fun, but it can be demanding too. I have a better appreciation now that even the best plans sometimes don’t get realized. And when a mother of a toddler confesses that sometimes teeth just don’t get brushed twice a day, I get it. We all do the best we can.

If you could overhear a patient after visiting your practice, what would you like to hear them say?

I would love to hear that they had fun at the dentist! I hope parents will say that he or she felt confident that their child was receiving the best possible care, and I want the child to be excited to come back!

Dr. Margeaux Black—Board-Certified Orthodontist

Dr. Margeaux was born and raised in the small town of Butte, Montana. She received her bachelor’s degree in molecular biology at Montana Technological University before moving to Colorado. She completed her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree, specialty training in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics, and Master of Science degree at the University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine. During dental school and beyond, Dr. Margeaux fell in love with Colorado and all the incredible outdoor activities it has to offer.

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When she’s not in the clinic, you can find Dr. Margeaux hiking, skiing, running, cooking, or curled up with a good book.

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Why did you get into orthodontics?

I got into orthodontics because it is a perfect combination of art and science. Each new patient is a fun puzzle to solve, and no patient’s care is identical to another. My childhood orthodontist inspired me to pursue this career.

What is your favorite part about being an orthodontist?

My favorite part about being an orthodontist is getting to know my patients throughout treatment. Each improved smile and the confidence that comes with it makes me remember why being an orthodontist is so fun.

If you could overhear a patient after visiting your practice, what would you like to hear them say?

If I could overhear a patient, I would love to hear them say they had fun and were comfortable at their visit. Bonus points if they say they are excited to come back!

Our Doctors

Dr. Cara Mudd—Board-Certified Pediatric Dentist

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Dr. Margeaux Black—Board-Certified Orthodontist

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