There’s no question that orthodontic treatment is an outstanding investment. While you do have to spend time and effort maintaining everything during treatment, the payoff is a straight, even smile, more self-confidence, and better oral health. For life! But what should you do if an orthodontic emergency arises? Start by calling an emergency orthodontist in Denison to arrange a visit and have the problem repaired. Then use the tips below for handling four common types of emergencies at home until you can be seen.
1. Mouth Sores
Everyone’s jaws and oral anatomy are unique, so some people experience mouth sores more than others. If you develop tender spots or irritation on your lips or cheeks, use some anesthetic gel from the drugstore for temporary pain relief. In addition, you can cover a bracket or wire with orthodontic wax (also from the drugstore) to keep it from rubbing against the soft tissue. And don’t forget to make an appointment to see if any adjustments need to be made to prevent future irritation.
2. Generalized Tenderness
It’s not uncommon to have an overall feeling of tenderness or soreness after your braces are adjusted or, if you’re in Invisalign, after getting a new set of aligner trays. Though it’s temporary and usually only lasts a day or two, you can use over-the-counter pain reliever to stay comfortable until you adjust to the increased pressure.
3. Broken or Poking Wires
If a wire is poking your lips, cheeks or gums, use a bit of orthodontic wax from the drugstore to cover the end of it. You could also use sugar-free gum in a pinch. Then make an appointment with an orthodontist to have the wire repaired or adjusted.
4. Loose Brackets
If you have a broken or loose bracket, you want to prevent it from causing irritation, moving freely around on the wire, or breaking completely off and becoming a choking hazard. Use either dental cement or orthodontic wax or from the store to stabilize the bracket until it can be repaired. Don’t use any other type of glue or adhesive because it can damage the bracket or your tooth and make it more difficult to fix.
Orthodontic emergencies can’t always be avoided. By making an appointment with an orthodontist right away and using these tips at home, you’ll be back on the road to a straight smile in no time!
About the Author
Dr. Ryan Bygness has decades of experience in the dental field and received an orthodontic certificate from the American Orthodontic Society in 2013. He loves helping patients of all ages achieve the straight, beautiful smile they’ve always wanted and has the experience to treat all of the orthodontic emergencies mentioned above. If you or a loved one is having an orthodontic emergency, or if you have any questions, you can reach Dr. Bygness via his website.