What Is Considered an Orthodontic Emergency?
Orthodontic emergencies are any issue with your braces, aligners, or appliances that causes significant discomfort, pain, or hinders your ability to eat, speak, or function normally. Some orthodontic emergencies require immediate attention from your orthodontist, while others can be managed at home until your next appointment.
Common Orthodontic Emergencies and How to Handle Them
 Broken Brackets or Bands
Cause: Biting into hard or sticky foods, trauma to the mouth, or general wear and tear. Solution: If a bracket is loose but still attached to the wire, leave it in place and cover it with orthodontic wax to prevent irritation. If it falls off completely, keep it in a safe place and bring it to your next appointment. Contact our office to schedule a repair.
Poking or Protruding Wires
Cause: Wire shifting due to chewing or brushing, or excessive force on braces. Solution: Use orthodontic wax to cover the wire if it is irritating your cheek or gums. If the wire is excessively long and causing pain, you can use sterilized nail clippers to trim the wire carefully. Call our office for further guidance.
Mouth Sores from Braces
Cause: Friction from brackets or wires irritating the inside of your mouth. Solution: Rinse your mouth with warm salt water to soothe irritation. Apply orthodontic wax over brackets or wires causing discomfort. Over-the-counter oral pain relievers or topical gels like Orajel can help alleviate pain.
Loose or Missing Spacer (Separator)
Cause: Spacers can sometimes fall out before your scheduled band placement. Solution: If a spacer comes out, contact our office. Sometimes, if it’s only a few days before your next appointment, we may advise waiting, but in other cases, replacement may be necessary.
Broken or Lost Retainer
Cause: Accidental dropping, misplacement, or excessive force when removing. Solution: If your retainer is broken, do not attempt to repair it yourself. Contact our office to get a replacement as soon as possible to avoid shifting teeth.
Swallowing or Ingesting a Bracket or Appliance Part
Cause: Dislodged orthodontic hardware that is accidentally swallowed. Solution: Stay calm. In most cases, small brackets or pieces pass through the digestive system without issue. However, if you experience difficulty breathing or sharp pain in your throat or stomach, seek emergency medical attention immediately.
Severe Pain or Swelling
Cause: Infection, excessive pressure from braces, or underlying dental issues. Solution: If you experience intense pain, swelling, or signs of infection, contact our office immediately. Rinsing with warm salt water and taking over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage discomfort until you receive professional care.
When to Call Your Orthodontist
While some minor orthodontic emergencies can be handled at home, you should contact Wake Orthodontics and Pediatric Dentistry if:
- You experience severe pain that doesn’t improve with home remedies.
- A wire, bracket, or appliance is completely broken or lost.
- There is significant swelling, bleeding, or signs of infection.
- You have difficulty eating, speaking, or closing your mouth properly due to an issue with your braces or aligners.
Preventing Orthodontic Emergencies
Many orthodontic emergencies can be avoided by following these tips:
- Steer clear of hard, sticky, or chewy foods, as they can harm your braces.
- Protect your teeth by using a mouthguard while playing sports or engaging in physical activities.
- Maintain good oral hygiene to prevent infections or irritation.
- Follow your orthodontist’s care instructions carefully.
- Keep orthodontic wax, a small mirror and a pair of nail clippers on hand for minor adjustments at home.
Trust Wake Orthodontics and Pediatric Dentistry for Your Orthodontic Care
At Wake Orthodontics and Pediatric Dentistry, we are dedicated to making your orthodontic experience as smooth and comfortable as possible. If you encounter orthodontic emergencies, don’t hesitate to reach out to our experienced team for guidance and care. We’re here to help you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile safely and efficiently!
Orthodontic Emergencies: Request Your Complimentary Consultation in Raleigh, Garner or Smithfield, NC Today
For immediate assistance, request your complimentary consultation today! Your smile is our priority!