Orthodontic Emergencies

Orthodontic emergencies are generally not severe and can often be managed at home with a few simple tools. Here are the most common ones and how patients can address them:

Poking Wire

• Issue: Sometimes, the end of the archwire can poke the cheeks or gums, causing irritation.
• Solution: Using a clean nail clipper or cuticle cutter, gently clip the wire as close as possible to the bracket. If that’s difficult, use orthodontic wax (rolled into a ball) to cover the wire tip and prevent it from poking until a visit to the office is possible.

Loose Bracket

• Issue: A bracket may come loose from the tooth, often due to eating hard or sticky foods.
• Solution: If the bracket is still on the wire, slide it back to its original position and secure it with orthodontic wax. If the bracket has completely detached, save it in a small bag and bring it to the next appointment.

Loose or Broken Wire

• Issue: An archwire may come loose or break, potentially causing discomfort.
• Solution: If the wire is out of place, use tweezers to carefully guide it back into the bracket. For broken wires, trim the sharp end if possible with a nail clipper, then cover with wax or a small piece of cotton if it’s causing discomfort.

Irritated Cheeks or Gums

• Issue: New braces often cause irritation to the inside of the cheeks and lips.
• Solution: Apply orthodontic wax to the brackets or wires causing irritation. Also, rinsing with warm salt water (1 teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water) can help reduce soreness and promote healing.

Loose Bands or Separators

• Issue: Molar bands or separators used before placing braces can sometimes become loose.
• Solution: If a separator falls out, try to gently push it back in place with clean fingers or tweezers if possible. For loose molar bands, avoid chewing on that side and call the orthodontist to have it reattached.

Ligature Tie Comes Off

• Issue: The small rubber or metal ties around the brackets may come off or break.
• Solution: Use tweezers to reposition it if possible, or leave it off if it’s not possible to replace it. Inform your orthodontist at the next appointment so they can replace it.

Soreness or Tooth Pain After Adjustments

• Issue: It’s normal to experience mild soreness after adjustments.
• Solution: Over-the-counter pain relievers (like ibuprofen or acetaminophen) can help alleviate discomfort. Rinsing with warm salt water and eating soft foods will also help manage the pain until it subsides.

General Tips for All Emergencies

• Oral Rinse: Rinse the mouth with warm salt water to keep the area clean and reduce discomfort.
• Soft Foods: Stick to soft foods if the braces are causing discomfort or if there’s a loose bracket.
• Call Your Orthodontist: Even if the emergency can be handled at home, it’s best to inform your orthodontist to determine if an appointment is necessary.

Most orthodontic emergencies are manageable at home, but your team at Cruz Orthodontics is always ready to assist if patients need further help or if a quick visit becomes necessary.