Emergencies In Orthodontics: What to Do with Braces - Video Guide

Watch this video on How To Deal With a Broken Bracket at Home.

Many Orthodontic Emergencies Can Be Handled at Home

You can handle it at Home

Knowing what to do when you have an issue with your braces is crucial. This info makes sure your braces treatment journey stays on track without any hiccups! Some problems can be solved with items you have at home. But for others, you may need to schedule an appointment and visit the office immediately.

Orthodontic emergencies are rare. Yet, when they occur, you can often find a simple solution at home. This article breaks down what counts as a braces emergency. Additionally, it will guide you on how to manage these situations at home.

This manual will help you deal with typical orthodontic issues. You can do this using tools that are readily available in your home. Thus, you don't need to hurry to the workplace for problems that you can manage from home!>

Remember, if you can't resolve the issue at home, don’t hesitate to call your orthodontist. They can give more advice or set up a chat if needed. Stay prepared with these orthodontic emergency at-home solutions and ensure a smooth orthodontic treatment journey.

Table of Contents

Loose or Broken Braces Brackets | How To Deal With a Broken Bracket at Home | Wire Poking Cheeks or Gums | Tooth Discomfort and Soreness | Ulcers or Sores Inside Your Mouth | Braces Wire Slipped Out Completely | Open Coil Spring | Poking Steel Tie | Lost Rubber Band | Broken Retainer

  • What is Considered an Orthodontic Emergency?

    There are many issues that can be easily solved at home. However, the following issues consist of true orthodontic emergencies:

    - An injury or trauma to the mouth, teeth, or face
    - Infected gums or other parts of the mouth
    - Severe pain

    If any of these apply, consult with your orthodontist as soon as possible.

  • What Should I Do During an Orthodontic Emergency?

    First things first: don't panic! Some pain or discomfort in your mouth, especially during the first days of treatment or after a tightening, is normal. But if the pain does not subside or if there are true issues, here’s what you should do:

    - Identify the problem: Use a mirror or have a household member look in your mouth to identify what’s wrong.
    - Can you resolve it at home?: Follow the instructions below to attempt to solve the issue from your home. You can handle most problems at home with the tools you already possess!
    - If your home remedies for wire poking in orthodontics don’t work, contact your orthodontist right away. They can provide the necessary help.
    - In case of a mouth or face injury, or an infection, it’s important to get in touch with your orthodontist. They can guide you on the next steps to take. Remember, professional help is crucial when home treatments fail.
    - During a health emergency: contact your medical expert for assistance.

diamondbraces patient with broken bracket

Braces Brackets

Dealing with loose braces brackets is not a serious emergency. Brackets can become loose or detach from your teeth. This often happens because of eating hard or sticky foods. It can also occur if you play with the wires and brackets or bump your braces into something.

A broken wire can also result in loose brackets. This can affect tooth movement. To prevent this, it is important to avoid hard foods and not play with the brackets.

Is a Loose Bracket an Orthodontic Emergency?

If your braces are missing a bracket, don't worry. They will keep working as anticipated until your orthodontist has the chance to substitute it.

In case a bracket becomes loose or breaks, keep it in its place. You can cover it with wax for comfort if needed. If the bracket completely breaks off, simply remove it and leave it be.

Managing orthodontic discomfort and soreness at home can be straightforward. A loose wire or bracket doesn’t have to disrupt your treatment plan. Don't forget to rinse and brush your teeth regularly to keep your mouth healthy while wearing braces.

Wire Poking Cheeks and Gums

Cheeks or Gums

Should your archwires protrude and lead to discomfort, there's a solution. First, use a clean pencil eraser tip or a new cotton swab. Push the wire back into the molar tube. This action is akin to using a scoop to dish out your preferred ice cream.

Next, safeguard your gums. Fasten a wax ball to the end of the wire. As straightforward as topping your ice cream with a cherry.

Lastly, trim the wire. Use clean, disinfected nail clippers. Clean the clippers with rubbing alcohol. Then, trim the wire to a comfortable length.

You may require a mirror or the help of a relative. Trimming the edges of your ice cream cone to make it perfect is like.

Can I Cut the Wire on my Braces?

You can use a nail clipper or a pair of scissors to trim the wire of your braces. This will help you avoid any discomfort. Remember, it's important to be careful while doing this. You don’t want to damage the type of braces you are wearing, be it Invisalign or lingual braces.

Your orthodontist will take care of any adjustments during your next visit. They will ensure everything is in the right place. This is a common part of the process when wearing braces. So, don’t worry if you have to trim the wire occasionally.

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