Emergency Orthodontic Care
Orthodontic emergencies tend to be more of mishaps than true emergencies. Although things can go wrong that may cause discomfort, pain, or anxiety, the likelihood that you will be acutely hurt due to an orthodontic appliance is extremely unlikely. However, understanding how to handle orthodontic emergencies can help you maintain your orthodontic treatment plan effectively.
If any of the circumstances listed below should happen to you and you are unable to repair it or alleviate the pain yourself, it is important that you contact us immediately to schedule a visit for emergency care. We will make every effort to see you as quickly as possible so that we can alleviate your pain and repair the problem. Our team is trained to handle orthodontic emergencies promptly to ensure your treatment continues smoothly.
Ferri Orthodontics provides emergency orthodontic care.
How to Make Braces Stop Hurting
When you first get braces attached, it can take a little bit for your mouth to adjust to having them. You may get some irritation on the inside of your lips or cheeks. There are many ways to help battle this adjustment. When you start treatment, we will give you a kit that will have everything you need to relieve discomfort and make the transition as comfortable as possible. Your lips and cheeks will toughen up in no time!
Common Orthodontic Emergencies and Solutions
Soreness
Generalized soreness is common both when you first get your braces and after each adjustment. This tenderness typically lasts for up to five days and can be relieved by using warm, salt water mouthwashes or over-the-counter pain relievers. For more information on coping with soreness, visit our Life With Braces page. Using orthodontic wax can also help soothe any irritation caused by your braces.
Loose Wire
If one of the arch wires from your braces comes loose, you can try to put the wire back in place with a pair of tweezers. You will need to gently slide it back into place, being careful not to permanently bend it. When a wire comes loose, it can also cause irritation to the gums. If this happens, you can try using wax or wet cotton to cover that area of your braces or your gums. In some cases, a protruding wire might require a temporary fix with orthodontic wax until you can visit our office.
Poking Wire
Sometimes a wire will work its way out so that it doesn’t come off but a tip pokes out into your mouth. This can cause considerable irritation and discomfort. If it happens to you, you can try using a pencil eraser to push the wire down and away from your mouth. You can also try using wax or wet cotton to alleviate the discomfort. If the poking wire persists, schedule an appointment to prevent further damage to the inside of your mouth.
Lost Retainers
It may not seem like an emergency, but if you lose your retainers, it is important that you contact us right away to have them replaced. Without your retainers, your teeth will quickly begin to move back into their original positions, and you will lose all of the hard “work” you put into them. Replacing lost retainers promptly is crucial to maintaining the correct positioning of your teeth.
Loose Brackets or Bands
If your brackets or bands become loose, you may need emergency care, contact us immediately to schedule an appointment. Remember to bring all components with you to your appointment. Loose or broken brackets can cause discomfort and impact your orthodontic treatment plan, so timely repair is essential.
Poking Appliance
If part of your appliance is loose or poking you, try putting wax over the part that is causing the irritation. If you develop a sore due to a poking appliance, you can try using a topical anesthetic like Orajel to relieve the pain. Using relief wax can provide temporary relief until you can visit our office for an adjustment.
Your Headgear Hurts or Does Not Fit
If your headgear is causing you considerable discomfort, it may be because you are not wearing it properly or you are not wearing it for the full amount of prescribed hours. Be sure to follow the headgear instructions given to you by the doctor. If the facebow is bent, however, be sure to call us to have it adjusted – it may not need emergency care, but it does need to be corrected. Proper usage and fit are essential to avoid severe pain and ensure effective treatment.
Sometimes emergencies happen during orthodontic treatment with braces, but the team at Ferri Orthodontics is here to help.
Preventive Measures
Taking preventive measures can help you avoid many common orthodontic emergencies. Here are some tips to keep your orthodontic treatment on track and minimize discomfort:
- Avoid Eating Hard Foods: Eating hard or sticky foods can damage your braces or orthodontic appliances. Stick to soft foods to prevent broken brackets or wires.
- Regular Check-ups: Keep up with your scheduled orthodontic appointments to catch potential problems early. This helps ensure that your braces and other appliances remain in proper position.
- Use Orthodontic Wax: Apply orthodontic wax to any areas causing irritation in your mouth. This can help prevent sores and provide relief from discomfort.
- Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Brush and floss regularly to keep your teeth and gums healthy. Poor oral hygiene can lead to mouth sores and infections.
- Wear Your Retainers: After your braces are removed, consistently wear your retainers as instructed to keep your teeth straight and avoid relapse.
By following these preventive measures, you can reduce the risk of orthodontic emergencies and ensure a smoother, more comfortable orthodontic treatment experience.
Contact Us
If you have any questions or concerns about your braces, please feel free to contact us or schedule an appointment. We have three treatment locations conveniently located in Milwaukee, Mt Pleasant and Brookfield. In cases of severe pain or true orthodontic emergencies, call our office as soon as possible for immediate attention.
