How To Handle An Orthodontic Emergency
Orthodontic emergencies are rare, but itโs still important to be prepared for them so that they donโt impact your treatment if they do happen. As a rule, if you experience severe pain or have an appliance problem you canโt take care of on your own, call our office and schedule an appointment.
Common Emergencies
There are actually quite a few things you can do if something goes wrong with your orthodontic appliance.
Loose Band Or Bracket
If the band or bracket is still attached to the archwire,ย leave it there and use wax to alleviate any discomfort. If it comes completely loose, wrap it in tissue andย call us to schedule a repair appointment.ย Donโt just wait until your next regular appointment, because broken orthodontic appliances can delay treatment!
Loose Wire
If you can, put the wire back in place using tweezers or needle nose pliers. You can alsoย use a piece of dental floss to tie the wire in place, and as a last resort, you canย use nail clippers to trim the wireย behind the last bracket it is securely attached to. If the wire is uncomfortable, place wax over it and schedule a repair appointment.
Poking Wire
If a wire from your braces is poking out, you canย use a pencil eraserย to push it down orย use wax to cover it. Make sure that the wire that is poking you isย dry and clean before you cover it with wax.ย Also, remember to remove the wax before eating and brushing your teeth.
General Soreness
Each time you get your braces tightened, you may feel soreness in your mouth that can make it difficult to chew. You can relieve this discomfort byย rinsing your mouth with warm saltwaterย (just make sure not to swallow it).ย Over the counter pain medicationย can also help, and you can use wax to cover any parts of your appliance that cause irritation to your cheeks, lips, or tongue.
How Fossum Family Dental Care Can Help
Sometimes an orthodontic emergency is not one you can solve yourself, and thatโs where we come in.ย If the problem is with your orthodontic appliance, call us at 832-595-2266 to schedule a repair appointment.ย If you sustain a traumatic injury to the mouth (such as a sports injury or accident), you might need to immediately visit the emergency room, butย make sure to notify our officeย and your general dentist.
