It is unlikely that you will experience a true orthodontic emergency after having braces applied or adjusted. However, loose, broken, or poking appliances can cause pain and irritation. We are here to help. Many of the things we provide in the kit we give our clients after having braces applied can be used at home to manage irritation and minor emergencies.
Wearing a mouth guard when engaging in physical activities and sports will protect your braces and prevent orthodontic emergencies. Also, practicing good oral health care and properly taking care of your appliance will prevent emergencies.
Orthodontic Emergencies You May Experience
It may be possible for you to solve some minor orthodontic issues you may experience on your own. This will allow time for you to schedule an appointment in our office. After having braces applied or using other orthodontic treatments, be sure you understand the names of the parts and how they work. This will make it easier to identify if parts are out of place or broken.
After alleviating immediate discomfort with the options we mention below, get in touch with our office to schedule an appointment to address the problem. Allowing an extended period of time to go by when dealing with a broken orthodontic appliance can disrupt your treatment plan.
Managing Issues with Headgear
You may experience discomfort because of wearing headgear. It is common to experience pain when getting used to wearing the headgear. However, it is important for you to closely follow the instructions provided by your orthodontist. If your pain persists for several days despite following all instructions, contact us to schedule an evaluation. If you notice that the facebow or other pieces are bent or broken, contact us.
General Soreness
Having braces applied or adjusted typically means that you will have a few days of general soreness. Your teeth and mouth may feel tender, especially when you bite or chew. You can use a mouthwash made with warm salt water to relieve this pain. Or you can take pain medication. If the general soreness does not go away after five days, contact us. We will schedule an evaluation.
Your cheeks, lips, and tongue are also likely to be sore. They need time to toughen and get used to being in contact with the metal appliance. Using wax in areas that are sensitive is helpful.
A Poking Wire
Placing wax on a poking wire can alleviate discomfort. It may also be possible to move the wire a bit using a pencil eraser. If the discomfort does not go away after a couple of days, we can schedule an appointment to have you evaluated.
A Loose Wire
You may be able to alleviate discomfort associated with a loose wire by placing wax on it or putting the wire back in place using a pair of tweezers. If these two things do not help, clipping the wire may be a good option. Get in contact us to schedule an evaluation. We will examine and repair the loose wire.
A Loose Appliance or Bracket
You may be able to alleviate discomfort from a loose appliance by placing wax on the part that is causing irritation. Then get in contact with us to schedule an appointment to have the loose appliance examined and fixed.
When it comes to a loose bracket or band that is attached to a wire, do not adjust the placement of it. Put wax on it, and schedule an appointment. If the wire is detached, wrap the bracket in a clean cloth or tissue and schedule an appointment immediately.
