What to Do in an Orthodontic Emergency
Generally speaking, an orthodontic emergency is pain or discomfort due to orthodontic appliances, such as braces and Invisalign. While uncomfortable orthodontic issues, like wires poking around in your mouth, may make you want to run to the nearest dentist in Long Beach, this usually isn’t necessary.
A vast majority of orthodontic emergencies do not require immediate medical attention and can be handled by patients themselves. True orthodontic emergencies that require urgent care are extremely uncommon, but can and do happen.
If you believe you are experiencing an orthodontic emergency, the first step is determining the severity of the situation: is it a minor orthodontic issue that can be temporarily fixed until you see your orthodontist or is it a real emergency.
Identify the Orthodontic Emergency
There are a variety of orthodontic emergencies, ranging in severity. Due to this, patients must first pinpoint and assess the situation, which could be anything from oral bleeding to the swallowing of a device. Have someone look in your mouth or use a mirror to find the problem if necessary.
Once you have identified the issue, determine if your situation requires immediate care.
Does My Orthodontic Emergency Require Immediate Medical Attention?
True orthodontic emergencies – severe bleeding, swelling or pain – are usually caused by one of the following:
- Direct injury to the face, mouth or teeth Sustaining serious trauma or injury to these areas can result in teeth that are dislodged, fractured, or knocked out completely, not to mention neck and head trauma.
- Braces Instances where wires and brackets have broken or shifted, causing severe pain and bleeding that you cannot resolve are considered genuine emergencies.
If you are dealing with any of the issues above, Orthodontics of Long Beach recommends seeking help as soon as possible.
How to Handle Minor Orthodontic Emergencies at Home
It is much more likely that you are going to deal with minor orthodontic emergencies due to an orthodontic appliance. Thankfully, these minor issues are not only common, they are easily fixed.
Loose or Broken Brackets
A huge source of stress for many orthodontic patients, this is a common problem that isn’t very serious. Getting into a collision while playing or eating crunchy, hard foods can break or loosen brackets.
To fix this, use orthodontic wax to cover the bracket and hold it in place. Keep the brace tightly covered with wax to limit its movement as much as possible. Then call an orthodontist to schedule an appointment for a refit.
Protruding Wires Poking Gums or Cheeks
Occasionally, the end of a wire can work itself out of place, poking at your cheeks or gums and causing pain or discomfort. To alleviate this, use a clean cotton swab to push the wire back into the tube.
Another way to fix this issue is by placing a ball of orthodontic wax over the end of the wire to create a protective barrier for your inner mouth.
If the wire is excessively long, trim it away, using a sterilized pair of nail clippers.
Mouth Ulcers, Sores or Irritation
A common concern for people who wear braces, the lips, cheeks, gums and mouth can become irritated by constant contact with your braces, sometimes causing small ulcers or sores. The best thing to do is avoid touching the area with your fingers and cover the irritating wires or brackets with wax.
You can also make a saltwater rinse to soothe the area, mixing warm water with a teaspoon of salt. Swish this solution around in your mouth and spit it out, repeating the process as many times as necessary during your day.
Tooth Soreness and Pain
Feeling discomfort is very normal and nothing to stress about. It’s going to happen as teeth adjust to their new positions. Many patients may also feel as if their teeth are loose and may fall out, but they are simply shifting exactly as you want them to. The loose feeling fades as you grow familiar with the movement.
To deal with the pain, take an over the counter painkiller. Chewing is also helpful, and even though it may not feel great, it will increase blood flow in the gums.
Braces Wires that Have Slipped Out
If the wire completely slips out, use a pair of clean tweezers or your fingers to get it back into the molar tube. If that isn’t possible, try using sterile nail clippers to remove the loose piece. The wire is still being held in place by other brackets, keeping your treatment on course.
If you are not successful, it’s time to call a dentist in the Long Beach area to inspect the wire and provide further assistance.
Protruding Steel Tie
The steel ligatures used in some braces to connect wires and brackets can sometimes unwind, poking parts of your mouth. Use the clean end of an eraser to push it back in place or orthodontic wax to cover the end of the wire.
Loose and Lost Rubber Bands
The tiny elastic bands on brackets can loosen and even pop off. Though they help keep the wires in place, they are an added precaution and if one comes off it will not interrupt your treatment.
Guide rubber bands in place using sterile tweezers if you can. If this proves a bit too tricky, contact your orthodontist and they will be happy to help you at your next appointment.
How to Prevent Orthodontic Emergencies
To reduce the chance of an orthodontic emergency, the best thing you can do is listen to your orthodontist and follow the instructions they’ve given to you for proper wear and care.
Need an Emergency Orthodontist in the Long Beach Area?
At Orthodontics of Long Beach, we know that just the smallest issue with braces can be upsetting, which is why we strive to assist orthodontic patients in the Southern California area with stress-free and safe experiences when they are most stressed.
If you aren’t sure if your orthodontic issue requires urgent attention, do not wait to find out. Contact your orthodontist or our experts immediately for help.
If you have an orthodontic emergency, contact us at (562) 667-2973 immediately for expert assistance on what to do next or to schedule an appointment.
