Have you ever wondered what to do when a braces emergency arises? While orthodontic emergencies are rare, knowing how to handle them can make a big difference in your comfort and treatment progress. The first step is to assess the severity of the issue: is it a major emergency requiring immediate professional care or a minor inconvenience you can address temporarily at home?
Types of Braces Emergencies
Major Orthodontic Emergencies
Severe pain or swelling might indicate an infection or serious injury that needs urgent attention from your orthodontist. Major braces emergencies include:
- Trauma or injury to the teeth, face, or mouth
- Infection or swelling in the gums, mouth, or face
- Severe, unmanageable pain in the teeth, gums, or jaw
If you or your child experience any of these situations, contact your orthodontist immediately for assistance.
Minor Orthodontic Emergencies
Minor braces emergencies are common and can often be managed at home until your next appointment. These include:
- Tooth soreness
- Loose brackets, bands, or wires
- Mouth sores
- Food stuck between braces
- Poking archwires
- Lost elastics
- Broken retainers
How to Manage Common Minor Braces Emergencies
Tooth Soreness and Irritation
When you first get braces, your cheeks and lips may feel sore as they adjust to the brackets and wires. A simple saltwater rinse (one teaspoon of salt in warm water) can soothe the irritation. Over-the-counter pain relievers may also help.
Loose Brackets, Bands, or Wires
If a bracket or band becomes loose but remains attached to the wire, leave it in place and apply orthodontic wax for comfort. If the bracket or band comes off completely, save it in an envelope to bring to your next appointment.
Mouth Sores
Braces can sometimes cause small sores or ulcers on your gums or cheeks due to friction. These are common and typically heal quickly. Avoid touching the sores with your fingers, rinse with salt water to promote healing, and use orthodontic wax to cover any areas causing irritation.
Food Stuck Between Braces
Food debris can easily get trapped in braces. Use dental floss with a small knot tied in the middle to gently remove the food. Be careful not to hurt your gums or damage your braces.
Poking Wires
As your teeth shift, the archwire may protrude at the back of your mouth, causing discomfort. Use orthodontic wax to cover the sharp end temporarily. If the wire is too bothersome, you can trim it carefully with clean nail clippers, but only as a last resort.
Broken Retainers
If your retainer breaks, stop wearing it and contact your orthodontist immediately. Retainers are crucial for maintaining your straightened teeth, and wearing a broken one can exert improper force, potentially undoing your treatment progress.
Emergency Orthodontic Care Kit
At PretoriaSmile Orthodontics, we’ve prepared a Braces Emergency Kit to help you manage minor issues on the go. Our kit includes:
- Aloclair: Promotes faster healing for ulcers or sores
- Gishy Goo: Stronger than wax for added comfort
- Orthodontic wax
- Cheek retractors
- Emergency care pamphlets
Preventing and Addressing Braces Emergencies
By staying informed and prepared, you can handle most braces emergencies with confidence. For severe issues, or if you’re unsure how to proceed, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at PretoriaSmile Orthodontics. Schedule a consultation today, and let us help you keep your treatment on track for a healthy, beautiful smile!
