Orthodontic Emergencies can happen unexpectedly, causing pain and discomfort that needs to be addressed quickly. But how do you know when it’s time to seek out immediate care for your braces or orthodontic appliance? Learn more in this article as we look at the signs of an orthodontic emergency, when to seek professional help, and how to handle any orthodontic emergency while waiting for care.
Introduction: What Are Orthodontic Emergencies?
Orthodontic emergencies are rare but can happen. If you have a wire poking out or a loose bracket, you may be able to fix it yourself. But if the pain is severe or you can’t fix the problem, call your orthodontist right away.
Signs of an Orthodontic Emergency
If you have any doubt that you or your child is experiencing an orthodontic emergency, err on the side of caution and call our office.
The most common signs of an orthodontic emergency are:
-Severe pain in the mouth or jaw
-An injury to the lips, tongue, or inside of the cheek
-A loose bracket or band
-A broken wire that is poking through the gum or cheek
When To Seek Immediate Care For An Orthodontic Emergency
At some point during your orthodontic treatment, you may experience an emergency. While most orthodontic emergencies are not serious and can be easily treated at home, there are some situations where you will need to seek immediate care from your orthodontist or dentist.
The most common orthodontic emergency is a
1. Loose bracket or band
If a bracket or band becomes loose, try to reposition it back into place with clean hands. If you cannot reposition the bracket or band, call your orthodontist for an appointment.
2. Poking wire
If a wire is poking you, try to push it back into place with a cotton swab or pencil eraser. If you cannot reposition the wire, cover the end with dental wax or gauze until you can see your orthodontist.
3. Severe toothache
Jaw pain, or any other type of pain that is not relieved by over-the-counter medication, call your orthodontist immediately. You may also need to see your dentist if the pain is accompanied by swelling in the face or gums.
How To Handle Common Orthodontic Emergencies
If you have an orthodontic emergency, the first thing you should do is call your orthodontist. If they are unavailable, go to the nearest urgent care or ER.
Common orthodontic emergencies include:
-Loose brackets or bands: If a bracket or band comes loose, try to reattach it with dental wax or a cotton swab. If you can’t reattach it, bring it with you to the orthodontist.
-Wire poking into the cheek: Use a cotton swab or eraser to push the wire back into place. You can also put dental wax on the wire to alleviate any discomfort.
-Mouth sores: Mouth sores are common when you first get braces. Rinse your mouth with salt water and use a topical cream like Oragel to relieve pain.
If you have any other questions about how to handle an orthodontic emergency, don’t hesitate to call your orthodontist!
Tips for At Home Care of Orthodontic Emergencies
If you have an orthodontic emergency, the first thing you should do is call your orthodontist. They will be able to give you specific instructions on how to handle the situation. In the meantime, here are some tips for at-home care of common orthodontic emergencies:
• Broken bracket or band: If a bracket or band comes loose, try to put it back in place with tweezers. If you can’t get it back in place, bring it with you to your next appointment. In the meantime, cover the exposed part of the wire with wax or a cotton ball to prevent irritation.
• Loose wire: Try to push the wire back into place with a pencil eraser or cotton swab. If that doesn’t work, use tweezers to remove the wire completely. You can also cover the end of the wire with wax or a cotton ball to prevent irritation.
• Pain: If you’re experiencing pain, take over-the-counter pain medication as needed and apply ice to the affected area for 20 minutes at a time.
Conclusion
Orthodontic emergencies can be a stressful time, but it’s important to stay calm and seek immediate care when necessary. The tips mentioned in this article are designed to help you quickly identify the nature of your emergency and take the appropriate steps toward finding relief.
When in doubt, consult with our orthodontist in Carmel for accurate diagnosis and treatment options. With quick action and proper dental care, even the most serious orthodontic issues can be treated effectively and without lasting damage to your teeth or gums.