What To Do In An Orthodontic Emergency

At Doctor Smiles Orthodontics, it’s our mission to help you achieve a beautiful, healthy smile. Normally, that’s a pretty straightforward process – we’re experts in orthodontics, so correcting even significant malocclusions is no issue for us. Sometimes, though, things can get serious. Though orthodontic emergencies are rare, this blog will give you some steps you can take if you encounter an emergency.
Loose Brackets or Bands: Loose brackets require immediate attention, so please call our Tucson orthodontics office at (520) 201-7311 as soon as possible. If it’s causing you serious pain, you may need to slide a bracket off the wire or cut the wire. You can cut the wire with a pair of nail clippers that you’ve washed and sterilized with alcohol if need be.
Irritating Wires: Painful wires are less of a serious issue, but they can still cause a lot of discomfort. If a wire is irritating you, try moving it out of the way with a cotton swab or pencil eraser or covering it with a piece of cotton or dental wax. If it’s really an issue, you can cut it with sterile nail clippers, but be sure to call our office if this happens.
Lost Separator: Lost separators are incredibly common – so don’t worry! Just call our office to see if we need to replace it.
General Discomfort: On the whole, orthodontic treatment is a fairly painless process. Often, though, patients experience some discomfort during the first week or so after getting braces. Feel free to calm the pain with a non-aspirin painkiller, warm washcloth, or heating pad.
Contact Your Tucson Braces Specialist
Have more questions about how to handle an orthodontic emergency? We’re always here to help. Feel free to call us at (520) 201-7311, reach out to us at our contact page, or schedule an appointment at our office using our easy online form. We can’t wait to hear from you, and don’t forget to check back at this blog for more tips and info on all things related to orthodontics.