Emergency Care in Woodridge, IL

At Girgis & Ito Orthodontics, we understand that orthodontic issues can sometimes arise unexpectedly, causing discomfort or concern. While true orthodontic emergencies are rare, we are always here to help you manage any problem quickly and effectively. If you experience any pain, appliance issues, or other concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Our team is dedicated to making sure your treatment continues smoothly and comfortably. We proudly offer emergency care in Woodridge, IL, so you can count on us when urgent orthodontic support is needed.

What is Emergency Care?

Emergency care in orthodontics is immediate help for urgent problems with braces or dental appliances. This encompasses extreme pain, broken wires, loose brackets, or anything else that hurts and can’t be resolved at home. Although rare, these emergencies will delay your treatment if not taken care of immediately. Emergency care keeps your braces functioning effectively and your treatment moving forward with less discomfort and fewer delays.

When Should You Contact Us?

There are times when you should reach out to our office immediately. If you’re experiencing severe pain or if an appliance issue arises that you can’t fix yourself, please call us as soon as possible. We can help schedule an appointment to resolve the problem and get your treatment back on track.

Benefits of Visiting Us for Emergency Orthodontic Care

At Girgis & Ito Orthodontics, we’re here when you need us most. Getting help quickly during an orthodontic emergency can prevent delays in your treatment and stop small issues from getting worse. Our team of orthodontist near you is trained to handle all types of urgent problems, from loose brackets to poking wires. We make sure you feel comfortable, safe, and cared for. We also guide you on how to manage discomfort at home until your visit. With quick support and expert care, you can stay on track with your smile journey and feel confident every step of the way.

Common Issues You Can Handle Until Your Appointment

Managing General Soreness

It’s common to experience some soreness when you first get braces, and your teeth might feel tender when you bite down. This discomfort usually lasts for about 3 to 5 days. To help ease the pain:

Stick to soft foods like mashed potatoes, yogurt, and soup until your teeth feel better.

Rinse your mouth with a warm salt-water solution to relieve irritation. Simply mix one teaspoon of salt in 8 ounces of warm water and rinse your mouth gently.

If the discomfort is severe, you can take medicine or a pain reliever that works for you. Avoid taking aspirin or ibuprofen often, as they may slow down tooth movement.

It’s also normal for your lips, cheeks, and tongue to feel sore for the first week or two while they adjust to your braces. Applying wax on your braces can provide relief—let us show you how to do it!

Dealing with Loose Appliances

If your appliance becomes loose, causing irritation or discomfort, you can place wax over the part that’s bothering you. This will help reduce discomfort until your appointment.

Headgear Discomfort

Headgear can sometimes cause discomfort if it’s not worn as instructed. Be sure to follow the guidelines given by your orthodontist in Woodridge, IL for how many hours per day you should wear your headgear. The more you wear it, the less discomfort you will feel. If the facebow (metal piece) gets bent or damaged, call us immediately for assistance.

Handling Loose Wires

If a wire becomes loose or slides out of place, try to reposition it gently using tweezers or needle-nose pliers. If you can’t reposition it, you can tie it with a piece of floss in place of the missing rubber band. In the worst case, you can clip the wire with a small fingernail clipper behind the last tooth it’s attached to. Be sure to cover any sharp ends with wax to avoid further irritation.

Poking Wires

If you have a wire that’s poking into your gums, you can gently push it down using the eraser end of a pencil. If that doesn’t work, place some wax over the sharp area to prevent further discomfort.

Loose Bracket or Band

If a bracket or band is loose but still attached to the wire, leave it in place and use wax to cover it for comfort. If the bracket or band has completely come off and can be removed easily, place it in an envelope and bring it to your next appointment.

Reach Out to Us for Help!

If you have any questions or are unsure how to handle an issue with your braces, don’t hesitate to contact us. We are always here to guide you and help resolve any concerns. Keeping your braces and other appliances in good condition is crucial for maintaining your treatment schedule, and we are committed to helping you every step of the way with prompt and reliable emergency care near you.