Braces have come a long way, and thanks to advances in orthodontics, emergencies are rare. However, if something does go wrong, you want to handle it the right way. Knowing the best approach ensures that any issues are dealt with quickly and in the most comfortable way.
What Counts as an Orthodontic Emergency?
Identifying and communicating the problem is the first step to getting the treatment you need. Most of all, you need to know when a situation requires immediate attention. Contact the dentist or orthodontist at the first sign of:
- Trauma or injury to the teeth or gums
- Infection or swelling
- Severe or chronic pain
If a part of your braces has come loose and you think it has been swallowed or inhaled, go to the nearest emergency room.
These situations are more severe but are much less common. Most orthodontic issues involve ensuring that your braces are comfortable and working effectively.
Soreness and Sensitivity
It’s common for your teeth to become sore after your braces are first attached or adjusted. This adjustment period may be uncomfortable, but it’s a sign the braces are working! You can use simple over-the-counter pain relievers to manage the soreness and stick to soft foods for the first day or so. A warm saltwater rinse might also help.
Typically, the soreness will go away in a couple of days. If it persists for several days or if the pain is severe, contact the orthodontist’s office. The tension may need to be adjusted in such cases.
Loose Brackets or Bands
Occasionally the dental cement holding a bracket or metal band in place may come loose. Components that come loose can be irritating but won’t seriously hurt your orthodontic treatment. Make an appointment to have the issue seen within a few days.
Poking Wires
Occasionally, a wire may come loose. If it isn’t causing trouble, schedule a maintenance appointment to have it conveniently corrected. If the wire is pinching or poking the surrounding soft tissue, however, you can attempt some self-care.
Try using a spoon or eraser to gently push the wire back into a safe position until you can be seen. If the wire doesn't budge, place dental wax over the wire. It will protect your mouth until your appointment.
Inner Lip and Cheek Irritation
Metal braces can sometimes irritate soft mouth tissue. In this case, the orthodontist can apply a coating of dental wax to make the braces more comfortable. Let the orthodontist know if you are prone to mouth sores, which sometimes become worse with braces.
Lost Retainer or Aligner Tray
Lost oral appliances are unfortunately a common problem. If you’ve lost a retainer, contact us right away so we can craft a new one. Quick action will reduce the degree of teeth movement and lessen the chance that more orthodontic treatment is needed.
If you lose one of your Invisalign® clear trays, use the previous set to keep your teeth from shifting. Contact our office to have a replacement made for the missing set.
Orthodontic Care for Big and Small Problems
Whether you need urgent care or have yet to get started with orthodontics, Dr. Phan and her staff are happy to help. Make an appointment at Care Orthodontics today!