Emergency Treatment

How To Handle An Orthodontic Emergency

Orthodontic emergencies are rare, but it’s still important to be prepared for them so that they don’t impact your treatment if they do happen. As a rule, if you experience severe pain or have an appliance problem you can’t take care of on your own, contact our office and schedule an appointment.

Common Emergencies

There are actually quite a few things you can do if something goes wrong with your orthodontic appliance.

Loose Band Or Bracket

If the band or bracket is still attached to the archwire, leave it there and use wax to alleviate any discomfort. If it comes completely loose, wrap it in tissue and contact us to schedule a repair appointment. Don’t just wait until your next regular appointment, because broken orthodontic appliances can delay treatment!

Loose Wire

If you can, put the wire back in place using tweezers or needle nose pliers. You can also use a piece of dental floss to tie the wire in place, and as a last resort, you can use nail clippers to trim the wire behind the last bracket it is securely attached to. If the wire is uncomfortable, place wax over it and schedule a repair appointment.

Poking Wire

If a wire from your braces is poking out, you can use a pencil eraser to push it down or use wax to cover it. Make sure that the wire that is poking you is dry and clean before you cover it with wax. Also, remember to remove the wax before eating and brushing your teeth.

General Soreness

Each time you get your braces tightened, you may feel soreness in your mouth that can make it difficult to chew. You can relieve this discomfort by rinsing your mouth with warm saltwater (just make sure not to swallow it). Over-the-counter pain medication can also help, and you can use wax to cover any parts of your appliance that cause irritation to your cheeks, lips, or tongue.

Serious Orthodontic Emergencies That Require Immediate Attention

While many minor orthodontic discomforts can be managed at home, specific emergencies demand immediate attention from your NYC orthodontic team. These situations may jeopardize your dental health or lead to severe discomfort. If you encounter any of these significant orthodontic emergencies in NYC, reach out to our office promptly for swift assistance.

Facial or Mouth Trauma

In cases of significant facial or mouth trauma, seek emergency care immediately. Falls or accidents causing damage to your braces or surrounding structures require urgent assessment. Our practice, specializing in both oral surgery and orthodontics, is uniquely equipped to address these situations promptly.

Displaced Appliances

For a dislodged appliance like an expander or retainer, contact our office urgently. Attempting to fix it yourself may lead to complications. We will assess the situation, make necessary adjustments, and ensure your orthodontic treatment progresses seamlessly.

Unexplained Severe Pain

Sudden, unexplained severe pain in your teeth, jaw, or braces demands immediate attention. This may signal an underlying issue like a loose wire, requiring professional evaluation and intervention. We’ll identify the cause and promptly alleviate your discomfort.

Swollen or Bleeding Gums

Swollen or bleeding gums around your braces may indicate infection or other serious concerns. Immediate attention is crucial to prevent complications. Contact our office, and we’ll assess the situation, provide necessary treatments, and guide you on proper care for optimal oral health during orthodontic treatment.

Severe Bite Changes

Sudden changes in your bite or misalignment of teeth require immediate orthodontic attention. This could point to issues with your braces, wires, or other components. Swift intervention is necessary to prevent further misalignments and keep your treatment on track.

Allergic Reactions

Suspecting an allergic reaction to orthodontic materials? Seek immediate assistance for swelling, redness, or itching. Our orthodontic team will promptly evaluate the situation, address the issue, and find suitable alternatives to ensure your safety and comfort.

In any serious orthodontic emergency, swift professional help is essential. Our team at RockCenter Orthodontics in NYC is ready to provide immediate attention, address your concerns, and ensure your orthodontic journey continues smoothly. Contact us promptly if you encounter any of these orthodontic emergencies, and we’ll prioritize your well-being with timely and effective care.

How [practice_name] Can Help

Sometimes an orthodontic emergency is not one you can solve yourself, and that’s where we come in. If the problem is with your orthodontic appliance, call us at [phone] or email us to schedule a repair appointment. If you sustain a traumatic injury to the mouth (such as a sports injury or accident), you might need to immediately visit the emergency room, but make sure to notify our office and your general dentist.