How to Treat Orthodontic Emergencies

Orthodontic emergencies are rare, but they do happen. Fortunately, there are many things you can do at home in these situations to avoid an additional trip to the orthodontist. Here are some tips and tricks for treating a variety of issues. 

Loose/broken bracket or band

Brackets can break if you play with them or eat hard foods. Similarly, bands can come loose when you chew sticky foods. If you experience either of these things, it’s not necessary to make an office visit unless you’re in pain. Use wax to cover your loose or broken bracket if desired, and let us know about the issue at your next appointment.

Loose or poking wires

Check to make sure your wires are comfortable at each appointment. If the end of your wire pokes out between visits and irritates your cheek, you can push it back in with an eraser or cotton ball. Placing wax at the end of your wire can help relieve irritation, or you can cut the exposed piece of wire using nail clippers sanitized with rubbing alcohol. 

If your wire comes out completely, try pushing it back into the tube with tweezers or by hand. You can also cut it with nail clippers and remove the pieces. If you continue experiencing discomfort from a loose or poking wire, contact your orthodontist.

Steel ties poking

If the end of a steel ligature gets dislodged and irritates your lips or cheek, use an eraser to push the steel tie back into place and cover the ends with wax to prevent further irritation.

Missing elastic

If you notice that one of your brackets is missing an elastic tie, there’s no need to worry. Your orthodontist will replace the missing tie at your next appointment.

Sore teeth or mouth

Your teeth will most likely be sore for about a week after you get braces. If you experience discomfort, try Tylenol or Advil to relieve the pain and stick to eating soft foods. Some people find it helpful to chew sugarless gum to improve blood flow to the affected areas.

You may develop small sores or ulcerations inside your lips and cheeks when you first get braces, but they should begin disappearing in about a week. Cover the ends of the hooks on your brackets with wax to minimize sores, and be sure to keep the area clean. Give yourself time to adjust to your braces, but contact your orthodontist if discomfort persists. 

Accidents

If you get in an accident that affects your teeth while wearing braces, schedule an appointment to have them examined. If the damage is more serious, go to the emergency room.