Patients may occasionally experience mouth injuries during orthodontic treatment. Dental emergencies related to braces or other orthodontic appliances generally fall into two main categories.
Emergencies Related to Orthodontic Appliances
Orthodontic appliances can sometimes become broken or bent during treatment. If you experience any issues, such as loose bands, loose brackets, broken wires, or wires poking the mouth, please contact us during patient hours to schedule an appointment. We cannot accommodate walk-in emergencies to ensure the best care for all patients.
In the meantime, here are some quick tips to manage common problems until your appointment:
Irritating Tie Wires: Cover the wire with beeswax or orthodontic wax, or gently tuck it under the archwire using a blunt object like a pencil eraser or a Q-tip.
Loose Bands or Brackets: Leave the loose appliance in place and call Oak Tree Orthodontics promptly to schedule a repair.
Broken or Poking Archwires: Use a pencil eraser to carefully bend the wire back into place, or trim it with clean nail clippers if necessary. Contact our office if the issue persists or remains uncomfortable.
Direct Injuries to the Mouth and Teeth
If you sustain a direct injury to your mouth or teeth, whether or not you are undergoing orthodontic care, take these steps:
Apply Ice: Immediately apply ice to the affected area to reduce swelling.
Contact Your Dentist: Call your regular dentist as soon as possible, as they may need to perform x-rays to evaluate the injury. This is especially important if a tooth has been displaced, knocked out, or fractured.
If your orthodontic appliances are dislodged or displaced, contact Oak Tree Orthodontics after your dentist has addressed the injury. Dr. Alexis Polczynski will adjust or replace the appliances as needed, ensuring the patient’s comfort and continued treatment progress.
After Office Hours
If an orthodontic emergency arises after hours and the patient is experiencing pain, please contact our office. You will receive information on how to reach the appropriate person for assistance.
Following these guidelines can minimize discomfort and ensure your orthodontic treatment stays on track.
