Orthodontics is the branch of dental sciences that deals with the positioning of teeth and the subsequent problems arising out of it. You might already be familiar with the wires and metal brackets of braces, or you might be new to this world. In either case, it helps to have some general knowledge about orthodontic issues to keep you prepared.
What Is An Orthodontic Emergency?
Although a dental emergency is rarely caused by an orthodontic problem, it is not unheard of. Staying aware and prepared for a scenario where orthodontic emergency crops up, and knowing where to find emergency orthodontic treatment near you, will save you a lot of stress. The occurrence of any of these symptoms, while you are undergoing orthodontic treatment, is considered an orthodontic emergency:
1. Severe injury to the mouth, jaw, neck, or face.
2. Bleeding or swelling of the gums.
3. Severe sudden pain in the mouth, jaws, face, or neck.
During any of these events, you should head straight for an orthodontist near you specializing in emergency orthodontic care. There is no need to worry about the interruption in your orthodontic treatment as it can be resumed once your emergency improves.
Some orthodontic emergencies can be handled by yourself, while others might require you to seek emergency orthodontic treatment in Orlando. For instance, a fractured tooth needs immediate medical attention, while something like a mouth sore caused by irritation or rubbing against braces can be dealt with at home.
Here we will provide guiding steps to handle minor orthodontic emergencies at home.
1. Brackets Or Wires Coming Loose
If you feel some parts of your braces, like the bands, wires or brackets, are coming loose or breaking, you will eventually have to see an orthodontist to have them fixed. However, meanwhile, you should not use elastics or other methods to join any parts of your braces together. It is best to leave it as is or keep it functional with the use of orthodontic wax to stop any irritations or mouth sores caused by the loose wires.
If a part of your braces has actually broken off, please put it safely in a plastic bag and take it to your orthodontist in Orlando to have it fixed.
2. Mouth Sores Due To Irritation From Braces
Some people are already more susceptible to mouth ulcers or sores, and the use of braces can further exacerbate the situation. Pain from the sores on the cheek, lips, tongue, or gums can be controlled by applying a topical anesthetic directly onto the sore. Orthodontic wax is another easy method of dealing with mouth sores due to rubbing against braces. You can apply a small portion of orthodontic wax, rolled into a disc, over the part of the braces causing friction with your cheeks or gums. This will smoothen the sharp edges of the braces and provide comfort to the soft parts of your mouth.
3. Archwire Moving Out Of Position
With the progress of the orthodontic treatment, your teeth will begin to move from their positions, making the archwire that connects the braces to move as well. This can usually be fixed at home by pushing the archwire back to position with the help of a cotton swab or eraser at the back of a pencil. Sometimes the archwire can begin to poke at the back of the mouth causing pain and irritation. A piece of orthodontic wax can help here in the same way as before, by placing it over the jutting archwire to cushion the inner tissue of your mouth against it.
4. Toothaches Or Loose Teeth
Over time, wearing braces can make you feel as if your teeth are coming loose, and cause minor toothaches. This is normal and an indication that the orthodontic treatment is working. Since this pain is expected to subside in a few days, normal pain medications and warm salt-water rinses can help minimize the pain. However, if the pain persists you should get in touch with an orthodontist immediately.
Most orthodontic emergencies can be handled at home, with proper knowledge and the right care. For more serious problems, All About Smiles Ortho is just a call away!