ORTHODONTIC EMERGENCIES

While true orthodontic emergencies are very rare, you may find yourself encountering a few challenges. Rest assured, most of these challenges can either be fixed with an at home solution or addressed at a regular orthodontic check-up.

Most orthodontic emergencies can be managed at home by following the instructions below:

Broken Bracket/Spring/Appliance

While not ideal, this challenge does not require immediate attention and can be fixed at regular visit. If you can remove the broken piece safely, please do. Wax can be helpful to stabilize pieces until the next visit if necessary.

Protruding Wire

If you are able, and feel comfortable, returning a loose wire back to its original position, please feel free to do so. If it is a small piece of wire poking, the back of a spoon or the eraser-end of a pencil can be helpful in bending the wire into a more comfortable position. As a last resort, if you are able use a nail clipper, or something similar, to cut the wire and remove as necessary. We will be able to replace and fix wires as needed at regularly scheduled appointments.

Irritation in Mouth

Sometimes braces or wires can be irritating to the mouth, especially when eating. A small amount of orthodontic relief wax makes an excellent buffer between metal and mouth. Simply pinch off a small piece and roll it into a ball the size of a small pea. Flatten the ball and place it completely over the area of the braces causing irritation. Wax can be purchased at any drug store if you are unable to get some from your orthodontist during this time.

Discomfort

Some mild to moderate discomfort is a normal part of orthodontic treatment. It is typically most intense after the initial bonding appointment any resolves within about a week. A milder discomfort is also possible after routine adjustments. Remember this is like a work-out for the patients’ teeth and once the teeth are used to orthodontic movements, the treatment will become more comfortable. We recommend patients take over-the-counter pain medication during the first several days and then on an as needed basis after. Soft food diets are also helpful during the initial period of adjustment. Warm saltwater rinses can help cleanse the oral cavity and heal tissue irritation.

O-Ring Comes Off

An o-ring is the tiny rubber band or sometimes a very thin wire (ligature), that holds the orthodontic wire in the bracket/brace. If rubber ligature should come off, you may be able to put it back in place using disinfected tweezers. If a wire ligature comes loose, simply remove it with the tweezers. If the wire ligature is sticking out into the lip but is not loose, it may be bent back down with a Q-tip or pencil eraser to eliminate the irritation. Please call our office if the o-ring comes off and you’re unable to place it back in its appropriate spot.

Food Caught Between Teeth

This is not an emergency, but can be a little uncomfortable or embarrassing for the braceswearing patient. It is easily fixed with a piece of dental floss. Try tying a small knot in the middle of the floss to help remove the food, or use an interproximal brush or toothpick to dislodge food caught between teeth and braces.