Managing Orthodontic Issues: Emergencies and Minor Troubles
At first, having orthodontic treatment may take a little getting used to. It isn’t uncommon to experience a bit of soreness when appliances are first put on, or some minor aches as teeth begin moving into new positions. Yet it’s comforting to know that genuine orthodontic emergencies are rare. If you think you may have a problem, the first step is to determine the severity: Is it urgent, or a minor problem you can manage temporarily?
Schaefer Dental Group is here to help you manage your orthodontic treatment in Lansing, Michigan.
A Major Emergency
There are only a few true orthodontic (or dental) emergencies. In any of these situations, you should seek help as soon as possible, starting by calling our office for guidance:
- Trauma or injury to the teeth, face, or mouth (e.g., fractured tooth).
- Infection or swelling of the gums, mouth, or face.
- Severe, unmanageable discomfort or pain in these areas.
If a fractured tooth is present, that immediate problem requires diagnosis and treatment before your orthodontic plan can be adjusted.
Some Minor Troubles: At-Home Relief
The vast majority of orthodontic problems are minor, but they may still cause discomfort or irritation. It’s generally best to soothe the immediate cause of the discomfort and then call for an appointment. Here are a few common problems and tips for relief:
Loose or Broken Brackets, Bands, or Wires
Often caused by eating hard or sticky food.
- If the band or bracket is still attached to the wire, leave it as is—but don’t connect any elastics to it!
- You can cover it with orthodontic wax if it’s irritating the inside of your mouth.
- If it has come off, save it.
- Action: Call our office to report the issue and we will recommend the next step.
Misplaced or Poking Archwire, Bracket, or Tie
This occurs as teeth start to move and the wire pokes near the back of the mouth or irritates the cheeks.
- Try moving the wire into a better position with a pencil eraser or a Q-Tip.
- If the wire won’t move, you may be able to cut the end off with a nail clipper sterilized in alcohol—but please call for guidance or instructions first.
- Cover the metal parts with orthodontic wax to help ease irritation.
General Tooth Pain or Loosening
It’s normal for teeth to become slightly loosened or tender, especially after braces are placed or adjusted.
- For minor soreness, use your regular over-the-counter pain reliever.
- A twice-a-day salt-water rinse may also help (mix one teaspoon of salt in an 8-ounce glass of warm water, and rinse for 30 seconds).
- A warm washcloth or heating pad placed on the outside of the jaw can offer some relief.
While actual emergencies are rare, the goal is to make orthodontic treatment as comfortable as possible.