Orthodontic treatment is intended to get you on your way to a healthier, straighter smile, but things don’t always go exactly as planned. Whether you have braces, aligners, or another appliance, problems can arise during treatment. Knowing what constitutes an orthodontic emergency and what to do in an emergency can greatly impact your ability to stay on track with your treatment and maintain your oral health. Emergency orthodontic care is sometimes required to treat pain, repair damage, or stop further complications in some instances.
Below is a handy refresher to guide you through the common orthodontic emergencies and how to manage them when they arise.
Is It an Emergency? How to Tell
Not all discomfort has to be seen the same day, but there are probably some cases where problems need to be treated immediately. Ask yourself these questions:
- Are you experiencing pain that is not going away?
- Is something poking, cutting, or irritating your mouth?
- Has a wire, bracket, or appliance broken or barely hanging on?
- Did you lose or swallow part of your braces?
If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, you may need immediate attention. Some issues may be okay to wait a day or two, while others require assistance immediately.
Types of Orthodontic Emergencies and What to Do
Let’s look at the most common types of orthodontic issues and how you can manage them at home until you see your orthodontist in Woodridge.
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Loose or Broken Brackets
If a bracket comes off or feels loose, leave it in place if it’s still attached to the wire. If it’s dangling or causing irritation, use orthodontic wax to cover it and prevent rubbing. Call the dental practice to get it reattached.
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Poking Wires
Sometimes wires shift and poke your cheeks or gums. Try pushing it back into place with a clean pencil eraser. If that doesn’t work, cover it with wax to stop the poking. Never cut the wire yourself unless told to by a professional.
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Broken Wires or Appliances
For broken braces, urgent care, call the dental practice right away. Do not try to fix or bend any parts yourself; it could make things worse. Meanwhile, protect your mouth with wax and avoid hard or sticky foods.
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Lost or Damaged Aligners
If you lose or crack your aligner, wear your previous one if it still fits, or skip to the next if advised. Call your orthodontist to get a replacement or instructions.
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Mouth Injuries from Braces
If you get hit in the face and feel pain, bleeding, or shifting of your teeth, don’t wait. Rinse your mouth, apply a cold compress, and call for help. This could be both a dental and orthodontic emergency.
Comfort Tips You Can Use at Home
Until you’re able to visit your orthodontist, these tips can help reduce discomfort:
- Use orthodontic wax to cover sharp edges.
- Rinse with warm saltwater to clean and soothe your mouth.
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen, if needed.
- Eat soft foods like soup, mashed potatoes, or smoothies.
Just remember, these are temporary fixes. Always call to ask what to do in an orthodontic emergency and get the right care. Just remember, these are temporary fixes. Always call to ask what to do in an orthodontic emergency and get the right care. Acting quickly can prevent the problem from getting worse and may even save you extra time and visits. Don’t try to fix things on your own; it’s always safer to check with your orthodontist. A quick call can give you peace of mind and help protect your smile in the long run.
Smile with Confidence at Girgis & Ito Orthodontics
At Girgis & Ito Orthodontics, we’re here to support you through any unexpected orthodontic issues. If you’re in pain or unsure about your braces or aligners, don’t wait; reach out to us. Our team is ready to help you stay on track with calm, caring guidance. Contact us today to book a visit or talk through your concerns. Let us be your trusted partner in every step of your smile journey, emergencies included!
