It’s not uncommon for patients to encounter minor injuries or issues with their orthodontic appliances during treatment. Orthodontic emergencies typically fall into two main categories: those related to the appliances themselves and direct injuries to the mouth and teeth.
Emergencies Involving Orthodontic Appliances
Sometimes, braces or other orthodontic appliances may become damaged or dislodged during treatment. If you experience loose bands, brackets, or broken wires, please contact us during regular hours to schedule an appointment. We cannot accommodate walk-in emergencies to ensure fairness to scheduled patients. Here are some tips to help manage common problems until your visit:
- Irritating Tie Wire: If a tie wire is causing discomfort, you can cover it with orthodontic wax or gently tuck it under the archwire using a blunt tool, like a pencil eraser or Q-tip.
- Loose Bands or Brackets: If a band or bracket becomes loose, it can usually remain in place until your appointment. Please call us as soon as possible, and we’ll schedule a time to fix the appliance.
- Poking or Broken Wires: If a wire is poking or has broken, you can try bending it back into place with a pencil eraser or, if necessary, carefully trim the wire using sterilized nail clippers. Contact us during office hours if the issue persists.
Direct Injuries to the Mouth or Teeth
In the event of a direct injury to your mouth or teeth, whether or not you are undergoing orthodontic treatment, apply ice to the affected area and contact your general dentist immediately. An x-ray will likely be required to assess the damage. Common dental injuries include:
- Displaced or Knocked-Out Teeth: If a tooth has been displaced or knocked out, seek dental care immediately.
- Fractured Teeth: For fractured teeth, prompt attention from your dentist is crucial to determine the severity and course of treatment.
Your family dentist will provide the necessary treatment for these injuries. Once your general dentist has treated the injury, we can adjust your orthodontic appliances if necessary to restore your comfort.
After-Hours Care
If an orthodontic emergency arises after office hours and you are experiencing pain, please contact our office. We will provide information regarding emergency contacts and further assistance to ensure you receive the care you need.
