Emergency Orthodontic Care
Frisco, TX
 When you receive orthodontic care, sometimes you run into an unexpected problem, particularly if you wear wires and brackets. While emergencies are rare, you need to know what to do if you happen to experience a small or major crisis. Call us at Rendon Orthodontics whenever you are experiencing discomfort, or need to see us right away.
What Is Considered an Orthodontic Emergency?
While they happen infrequently, orthodontic emergencies must be addressed immediately. Otherwise, you stand the chance of experiencing further dental problems. Don’t wait to call us if you experience trauma or injury to the face, teeth, or mouth, or your gums become infected or swollen. Also, unmanageable pain in the face or mouth should be treated without delay.
What Are Considered Small Orthodontic Emergencies?
One of the minor orthodontic emergencies we treat involves a loose or broken bracket or wire. If a wire, bracket, or band needs repair, either leave it alone, if it is still attached, or bring it with you to the appointment. In some cases, a wire or other part in your braces may be causing pain. If so, cover the piece with dental wax until we can make a repair. When you call our office, tell us the exact nature of your problem. That way, we will know what to anticipate and can offer you some relief until we can get the problem resolved.
Some patients complain about problems with the archwire. This thin metal wire, which runs through the braces, may shift and poke your gums as the teeth move. If this occurs, try using a Q-tip or sterilized tweezers to reposition the wire so it does not hurt your mouth. If you still have problems, cover that part of the brace work with dental wax.
What Should I Do If I Experience Soreness in My Teeth and Gums?
If you have soreness in the teeth and gums, this typically is normal and just shows that the braces are doing their job. When this happens, take over-the-counter pain medicine, such as Tylenol or Advil. You can also ease the discomfort by rinsing with warm saltwater. If the pain worsens or does not fade, call us and set an appointment right away. You may be experiencing a more serious dental issue.
What Are the Best Ways to Avoid Damage to My Braces and Prevent an Emergency?
To ensure that your braces do their job of straightening your teeth, you have to take care not to damage them. If you play in sports, ask us about having a mouth guard made to protect your teeth and braces from trauma or injury. Also, some foods are hard on brackets and wires. For example, sticky and gummy foods can lodge between brackets or wires and break them. Refrain from biting your nails and chewing on any pens, pencils, or other objects, as doing so can break or loosen the wires or brackets as well.
If you want your braces to straighten your teeth, you also need to make sure you treat them with care. If you do experience a loose wire or bracket, give our office a call as soon as you notice something is wrong. Don’t downplay any problem along these lines, as it can trigger an even greater dental issue. You can count on us to help you with any concerns you may have. Just give Rendon Orthodontics a call at 469-956-5022 whenever you need help or advice. |
