Emergency Care for Braces

EMERGENCY CARE FOR BRACES

During orthodontic treatment, it is common to experience some level of discomfort at any given time. However, it is important to understand the difference between an orthodontic emergency and minor orthodontic issues.
Emergencies can include injuries to your teeth, jaw, mouth or face and it is crucial to treat the problem before it gets worse. When a real orthodontic emergency occurs, you will need to see a doctor immediately. At Bible Hill Family Dentistry, we make every effort to accommodate same-day emergency appointments.

Minor issues can be handled the next day, or at your next scheduled appointment with Dr. Morine:

General soreness

It is normal to experience discomfort the next 2-3 days after braces are put on or adjusted. Eating soft foods until there is no discomfort will help. If the tenderness is severe, take acetaminophen.

Loose wire

Try to put the wire back into place with a toothbrush or a pencil eraser, if you cannot put the wire into its position and it’s causing major discomfort, you can cut the wire with a small fingernail clipper (use alcohol to sterilize it before you put it into your mouth) to clip the wire behind the last tooth to which it is securely fastened. If the wire is still poking, place wax on it so that it is no longer causing discomfort.

Loose bracket

If your bracket is still attached to the wire, you should leave it in place and put wax on it if its causing discomfort. If the bracket comes off, place it in a plastic bag and save it to bring it to your next appointment.

Irritated gums due to poking wire

Irritated gums or tissue can be relieved by rinsing your mouth thoroughly with a home-made mouthwash; made with 1 teaspoon of salt and 8 ounces of water.

Food caught behind braces

Use interproximal brush to remove any food remains stuck between your teeth.