Braces gradually move your teeth and help correct problems with tooth alignment and your bite. Like with any other dental treatment, unexpected problems can happen at any time. You bite into something hard or bump your mouth during a sports game. The important thing to know in these situations is whether you need urgent care or to wait till your next orthodontic visit. Our Dripping Springs orthodontist explains the difference so you can make a quick decision.
Orthodontic Emergencies That Need Urgent Attention
Some orthodontic problems require prompt attention, while certain injuries or symptoms may require emergency medical or dental care. Call our orthodontist right away if you have:
Severe mouth injury
If you have been hit in the mouth or jaw and you see bleeding or swelling, you need to get an immediate evaluation. Serious trauma like this can affect your teeth and braces.
Uncontrolled pain
Pain that is not getting better even after taking over-the-counter medicine means something is seriously wrong. Urgent care is necessary.
Swelling or infection
Swollen gums or pus around a tooth or the braces area is a possible sign of infection. You’ll need to schedule a same-day visit if possible.
Poking wire
A broken wire that is poking deeply into your cheek or tongue or causing cuts is more than uncomfortable. Orthodontic wax may help a little. But an immediate appointment will still be necessary.
Braces Situations That Can Wait (But Shouldn’t Be Ignored)
Some situations feel uncomfortable. You might not be having serious pain or bleeding, but these are still worth checking. We may ask our patients in Dripping Springs to wait a few days or until their next visit.
Loose or broken bracket
Does your bracket feel loose? Or has it come off entirely? Look at it in the mirror and see if it’s still on the wire. A loose or broken bracket that’s not hurting is usually not an emergency. Use orthodontic wax to cover the loose bracket if it is rubbing against your cheek or lips, and stay away from sticky and hard foods until your visit.
Mild irritation from brackets or wires
Orthodontic brackets or wires sometimes cause mild irritation when they rub against the insides of your cheeks. This is common in the first week after braces. Placing a piece of orthodontic wax on the sharp area can help.
Lost ties or separators
Elastic ties around your brackets keep the wire in place. If one of the ties or separators falls out, don’t panic. Your orthodontist can take care of it at your next appointment.
Soreness in your teeth
Slight soreness in your teeth soon after getting braces or after braces tightening is quite normal. Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen can help. Also, be careful while eating during this time. Avoid foods that trigger pain.
Final Words
These braces mishaps may happen at any time. If you’re still unsure whether your issue is an emergency or not, you can contact our team at Capital Springs Orthodontics right away. Our orthodontist will take a closer look and guide you about what to do next. Visit our Dripping Springs office or call us at (512) 447-6453 to schedule an appointment.