What to Do in an Orthodontic Emergency

Orthodontic Emergencies | The Smile Makers at Coastal Carolina Orthodontics At The Smile Makers at Coastal Carolina Orthodontics, your comfort and care are our top priorities. While true orthodontic emergencies are rare, we are always here for you when they happen. If you’re experiencing severe pain or a problem with your braces or orthodontic appliance that you can’t manage on your own, please contact our office immediately. The doctors at The Smile Makers will schedule an appointment to resolve the issue as quickly as possible.

You might be surprised to learn that many minor issues can be temporarily managed at home until you can come into the office. Here are some quick fixes for common orthodontic problems:

• Loose pieces: If part of your braces or appliance comes loose and you can remove it, place it in a small plastic bag or envelope and bring it with you to your next appointment.

• Poking wires: Use orthodontic wax to cover any sharp ends. You can also use a pencil eraser to gently push the wire down.

• Wire sliding to one side: Use tweezers or needle-nosed pliers to carefully pull the wire back and place it in the tube on the back tooth.

Even if you’re able to alleviate discomfort at home, be sure to call The Smile Makers as soon as possible to schedule a repair. Ignoring a damaged appliance can delay your treatment.

Common Orthodontic Discomfort and How to Manage It

General Soreness

After your braces are placed or adjusted, it’s normal to feel tenderness in your mouth and teeth for three to five days. Stick to soft foods like soup, yogurt, mashed potatoes, and smoothies until the soreness subsides.

For irritated gums and sore spots, rinse your mouth with warm salt water (dissolve one teaspoon of salt in eight ounces of warm water). You can also use Healthy Gums Rinse by The Natural Dentist or apply Orabase, available at most pharmacies, to the affected area for relief.

If the discomfort is more severe, take Acetaminophen (Tylenol) or whatever you typically use for mild pain relief. Avoid taking aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), or naproxen (Aleve) frequently, as they can slow tooth movement.

Appliance Issues and Quick Fixes

Headgear

If you experience discomfort with your headgear, it may be due to not wearing it as prescribed. The more consistently you wear it, the less discomfort you’ll feel. If the facebow becomes bent or damaged, contact The Smile Makers at Coastal Carolina Orthodontics immediately for assistance.

Loose Appliance

If your orthodontic appliance is loose or causing discomfort, place orthodontic wax on the area that’s bothering you until you can visit our office.

Loose Bracket

If a bracket or band is still attached to the wire, leave it in place and use wax to cover it for comfort. If it comes off completely, place it in an envelope or bag and bring it to your next appointment.

Loose Wire

If a wire becomes loose, use tweezers or needle-nosed pliers to carefully place it back into position. You can also use a piece of dental floss to tie the wire to the bracket if an o-ring is missing.

If you’re unable to position the wire comfortably and wax isn’t helping, you can carefully clip the wire using clean fingernail clippers behind the last secure bracket. If the clipped end is sharp, place wax over it to prevent irritation.

Poking Wire

If a wire is poking your cheek or gums, use a pencil eraser to gently push it down or apply orthodontic wax to cover the end until you can come in for an appointment.

Don’t Ignore Orthodontic Problems

Even if you manage to resolve a minor issue at home, it’s essential to call The Smile Makers at Coastal Carolina Orthodontics as soon as possible. Leaving a broken bracket, wire, or appliance unrepaired for too long can interrupt your treatment plan and delay your progress.

Need Orthodontic Emergency Care in Morehead City or Jacksonville, NC?

If you’re experiencing a braces emergency or orthodontic discomfort, call The Smile Makers at Coastal Carolina Orthodontics right away!

We are here for you with prompt, compassionate orthodontic care in Morehead City, Havelock and Jacksonville, NC to keep your treatment on track and ensure you stay comfortable.

Contact us today for emergency orthodontic support or to schedule your next visit!

All of our doctors have achieved Board Certification with the American Board of Orthodontics. Being Board Certified means our doctors have demonstrated the ability to diagnose and treat the most challenging orthodontic problems, and achieve beautiful and functional results! This certification is attained by only a fraction of orthodontists in the country, and we are the only Board Certified Orthodontists in the area. Choose to be treated by the best!