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Orthodontic Emergencies and How to Handle Them

Although getting braces is not just for teenagers, it is a sign of adolescence. Everyone wants a beautiful smile; thus, we are witnessing an increase in adults and older populations investing in their teeth with braces. Whether you’re an adult or a child, you could occasionally require an emergency orthodontist.

If you are undergoing orthodontic treatment, you know that getting used to wearing braces or a retainer takes some time. Most patients are likely to have mild aches and pains, especially as the teeth move and shift into an ideal alignment. As the treatment continues, this is particularly likely to be the case.

Orthodontic Emergencies

True orthodontic emergencies are uncommon, although they do happen occasionally. Having a strategy for handling these issues can make dealing with them less stressful and assist you in knowing what steps to take next if they should happen. Visit an orthodontist for additional information about orthodontic emergency care.

Food Stuck in Braces Causing Pain

Occasionally, a food particle may become caught between a band and a tooth or gum and hurt. Call your orthodontist if you cannot get it out with brushing, flossing, or a toothpick.

For your comfort, if you contact your orthodontist during regular business hours, they will probably schedule your appointment for the following day. A few days to a week is frequently sufficient if the discomfort is not too severe. Look up “What is pediatric dentistry?” to learn more about your children’s dental care.

Mouth Sores

You could have some mouth discomfort when the braces are first put on, and after a week, you might have trouble biting, and your teeth might become sore. The best action is to eat soft meals until discomfort from chewing is eliminated.

Even painful spots or swollen gums can be eased by gargling with warm saltwater. After thoroughly washing your mouth with the warm salt water solution, you feel more at peace. 

Poking Wire

Your orthodontist will do a check to make sure that no wires are poking or injuring your gums before the end of your initial session and frequently after that. However, there may be extra wire, which will cause it to puncture your mouth when your teeth reposition.

Typically, you don’t need to schedule an additional appointment with your dentist to fix a wire poking your gums. The part of the wire that is sticking out should be waxed. You may substitute a cotton swab if you run out of wax.

Additionally, you may use a pencil eraser that has been cleaned to press the wire until it is flush with the bracket and is no longer poking you in the face. This will stop the wire from causing skin irritation. Make an appointment with your orthodontist to handle the issue professionally if none of these fixes work for you or if the wire is jutting out so far that it is cutting your skin.

Broken Retainer

You’ll remember the sound of a smashed retainer for a long time. Examining your retainer should be your first action after getting over the initial shock of learning that it has been broken.

The next best thing to do is get a mouthguard that is available over-the-counter in stores if you cannot schedule an appointment with an orthodontist soon away. You could also get a temporary retainer that you can use up to your appointment. Consult a trusted orthodontist for any orthodontic services.

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