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Orthodontic Emergencies: How to Handle Problems with Your Treatment
During orthodontic treatment, minor issues like a poking wire or a loose bracket can happen. While these can be uncomfortable, most are not true emergencies. Knowing how to distinguish a real problem from a minor inconvenience and how to handle common issues at home can save you a trip to the orthodontist and provide immediate relief. This guide explains what constitutes a true orthodontic emergency and how to manage common problems with your braces or aligners.
What Is a True Orthodontic Emergency?
A true orthodontic emergency is rare but requires immediate professional attention. These situations include:
- Direct Trauma or Injury to the Face or Mouth: Any significant blow to the face, mouth, or teeth should be evaluated immediately. Go to an emergency room first if you suspect a jaw fracture or other serious injury.
- Severe, Uncontrolled Pain: Pain that cannot be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
- Swelling or Infection: Signs of an infection in the gums or mouth, such as significant swelling or pus.
Common Orthodontic Issues You Can Manage at Home
Most problems that arise during orthodontic treatment are minor issues that can be managed at home until your next scheduled appointment. Always call your orthodontist's office to let them know about the issue, even if you manage it yourself.
General Soreness
It is normal to experience soreness for a few days after braces are put on or adjusted. Sticking to soft foods and rinsing with warm salt water can help. Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can also be used as directed.
Poking Wire
A wire that is poking your cheek or gum is a very common issue. You can try to gently push the wire back into place with the eraser end of a pencil. If that doesn't work, cover the sharp end with a small piece of orthodontic wax to create a smooth buffer. Do not attempt to cut the wire yourself, as you could swallow the piece.
Loose Bracket or Band
A bracket can come loose if you eat hard or sticky foods. If the bracket is still attached to the wire, leave it in place and cover it with orthodontic wax if it's causing irritation. If it comes off completely, save it and bring it to your next appointment. A loose bracket is usually not an emergency, but you should call your orthodontist to see if they want to reattach it sooner.
Lost Separator or Elastic
If a small rubber separator falls out, call your orthodontist's office to see if it needs to be replaced before your next appointment. The same applies to the small colored elastics that hold the wire to the brackets.
When in Doubt, Call Your Orthodontist
Even if you believe an issue is minor, it is always best to call your orthodontist's office. Their team can provide specific advice and determine if you need to be seen before your next scheduled visit.
Conclusion: Stay Calm and Communicate
While orthodontic issues can be alarming, true emergencies are rare. Most common problems can be temporarily managed at home with simple tools like orthodontic wax. The most important step is to stay calm and communicate with your orthodontist's office. They can guide you on how to handle the situation and ensure your treatment stays on track.
FAQ: Your Top Questions About Orthodontic Issues
First, try to gently push the wire back towards your teeth using the eraser end of a pencil. If that is not possible, cover the sharp end with a small ball of orthodontic wax. This will create a smooth barrier to protect your cheek. Do not try to cut the wire yourself.
A loose bracket is generally not considered a true emergency unless it is causing significant pain or irritation. You should call your orthodontist's office to inform them. They will let you know if you need to come in for a repair appointment before your next scheduled visit. In the meantime, you can cover the loose bracket with orthodontic wax.
If you lose a clear aligner tray, call your orthodontist's office immediately for instructions. Do not simply skip to the next tray without their guidance. Depending on where you are in your cycle, they may advise you to temporarily wear your previous set of aligners or to move to the next set.