Orthodontic Emergency Care
There are seldom any true emergencies from wearing braces. Orthodontic emergencies are usually discomfort caused from a poking wire, broken brackets and appliances. Most orthodontic problems can be taken care of at home. If you are having a problem with your braces you should call our office. We will then set up an appointment to see you as soon as possible for a repair or to remedy the discomfort. If you have sustained serious injury and feel that your emergency is life threatening you should call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.
What You Should Do in Case of an Orthodontic Emergency
Do not go directly to our office, but rather call us as soon as possible if you have a broken or loose appliance. Even if you already have a regular appointment, we can see you sooner to take care of your emergency.
Wire Irritation
 |
View full screen video |
Often the discomfort caused by a poking wire can be remedied by moving the wire away from the irritated area with an eraser or cotton swab. If you cannot gently move the wire away from the irritated area, cover it with wax a small piece of cotton, or if these aren’t available try a small piece of chewing gum. If the poking wire is causing pain, you can trim it with clean nail clippers or a small pair scissors sterilized in alcohol. Even if you are able to alleviate the problem, it is important that you still call our office to schedule a repair. Wearing a damaged appliance over a period of time can result in a disruption of treatment.
Loose Bracket or Band
 |
View full screen video |
If your bracket or wire is loosened, call our office to make an appointment to have it repaired. If your bracket or band is still attached to the wire you can put wax on it. If the wire or bracket comes out, wrap it with a tissue or put it in a small plastic bag and bring it with you to your appointment.
Loose Appliance
If the appliance is poking you place wax or chewing gum on the offending part of the appliance. Then, call our office to schedule an appointment to take care of this problem.
Soreness from Braces
When you begin wearing braces, you may experience general soreness in your mouth and tenderness when biting. To alleviate this, rinse your mouth with a warm saltwater (half teaspoon of salt in about 8 oz. of water). You can also take acetaminophen or other non-aspirin pain relievers while you become accustomed to your new braces.
Lost Separators
Many patients will lose a separator during their orthodontic treatment. Don’t let it worry you. Just call our office and see if it needs to be replaced. Most of the time it does not need to be immediately replaced, especially if this occurs close to your appointment date.