Occasionally, some patients may experience an injury to the mouth during treatment. Dental emergencies while wearing braces or other orthodontic appliances generally fall into two categories.
Emergencies Related to Orthodontic Appliances
Sometimes, appliances may become broken or bent during orthodontic care. If you experience any of the following issues, please call our office during patient hours to schedule an appointment. Walk-in emergencies cannot be accommodated.
Temporary Solutions for Common Issues
Until your scheduled visit, here are some helpful tips to manage common orthodontic problems:
- Irritating tie wire – Cover it with beeswax or gently tuck it under the archwire using a pencil eraser or Q-tip.
- Loose band or bracket – Generally, it can remain in place until seen in our office. Call Drobocky Orthodontics during patient hours to schedule an appointment if needed.
- Broken or poking archwire – Try bending it in with a pencil eraser or carefully trimming it with clean nail clippers. If the issue persists, contact our office for further assistance.
Watch the video below to learn how to handle an orthodontic emergency.
Direct Injuries to the Mouth and Teeth
If you experience a direct injury to your mouth or teeth, whether undergoing orthodontic care or not, follow these steps:
- Apply ice immediately to reduce swelling.
- Contact your regular dentist as soon as possible. An x-ray may be required to assess the extent of the injury.
- If a tooth has been displaced, knocked out, or fractured, contact your family dentist first, as they have the necessary materials and anesthesia for treatment.
- If your orthodontic appliances are dislodged or displaced, we will adjust or replace them after your general dentist has treated your injury, depending on your comfort level.
After-Hours Orthodontic Emergencies
If you are experiencing pain or discomfort after office hours, please contact our office. Our voicemail will provide information on who to contact for further assistance.
