Rubbing Irritations

Brackets on your teeth can sometimes rub against your lips, irritating. Learning how to use “relief” wax can help prevent and manage this common issue.

• What to do before the emergency appointment: Use “relief” wax to coat brackets that cause rubbing irritation. Avoid any attempts to adjust the braces yourself, as it may lead to further issues.

In all cases, contacting your emergency orthodontic provider promptly is paramount. Our team at House of Orthodontia will guide you through these immediate steps and schedule an appointment to address the issue professionally. Prioritize your safety and comfort, and trust your provider to manage your orthodontic emergency effectively.

Major Orthodontic Emergencies

While major orthodontic emergencies are exceptionally rare, they demand immediate attention when they occur, as they involve potential harm to the mouth, jaw, or teeth. Here are the key major orthodontic emergencies that necessitate a prompt visit to the emergency orthodontist:

• Infected or Swollen Gums: Severe gum infections or significant swelling within the mouth should not be ignored, as they can be indicators of serious underlying issues.
• Trauma or Injury: Any trauma or injury affecting the face, teeth, or mouth requires immediate evaluation by an orthodontic professional.
• Unmanageable Pain: If you’re experiencing unrelenting and severe pain in your mouth or face, it’s crucial to seek immediate care.

Should you encounter any of these major orthodontic emergencies, don’t hesitate to call us at (212) 392-4789 for our Manhattan office and at (718) 852-4414 for our Brooklyn office.

General Soreness and What You Can Do

When you get your braces on, you may feel general soreness in your mouth, and your teeth may be tender to biting pressures for three to five days. Below is a list of things you can do to manage this:

• Stick to a soft diet until your teeth do not hurt to chew.
• Rinse your mouth with a warm salt-water mouthwash to address irritated gums and other sore spots. Dissolve one teaspoonful of salt in eight ounces of warm water, and rinse your mouth vigorously.
• An alternative (better tasting) mouthwash is the Healthy Gums Rinse by The Natural Dentist. Placing Orabase on the affected area may also help relieve discomfort; Orabase can be found in a pharmacy.
• If the tenderness is severe, take Acetaminophen (Tylenol) or whatever you normally take for headaches or similar pain. Aspirin, Ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil), and Naproxen Sodium (Naprosyn, Anaprox) slow tooth movement, so it is not advisable to use them frequently while wearing braces.

The lips, cheeks, and tongue may become irritated for one to two weeks as they learn a new posture and become accustomed to the surface of the braces. You can put wax on the braces to lessen this. Upon your initial appointment for treatment, our team will show you how!

Non-Emergency Dental Issues and What to Do

While orthodontic emergencies require immediate attention, not all dental issues are considered emergencies. It’s essential to distinguish between urgent concerns and those that can be managed with routine care. Here, we’ll list some non-emergency dental issues and guide what you can do:

• Routine Adjustments: Scheduled orthodontic adjustments, like tightening braces, are a normal part of your treatment plan. Attend your scheduled appointments as advised by your orthodontist.
• Loose Bands or Spacers: If a band or spacer feels loose but doesn’t cause significant discomfort, contact your orthodontic provider to schedule a non-emergency appointment.
• Minor Discomfort or Irritation: Some level of discomfort, especially after adjustments, is common. Over-the-counter pain relievers (as recommended by your orthodontist) and warm salt-water rinses can help manage minor irritation. Mention any persistent discomfort during your regular appointments.
• Routine Maintenance: Continue to follow your orthodontist’s instructions for routine maintenance, such as cleaning your braces and appliances as directed.
• Broken or Lost Elastic Bands: If an elastic band breaks or falls off, contact your orthodontic provider during regular hours to discuss the issue and receive guidance on replacing the band.
• Non-Critical Wire Adjustments: If you notice a minor wire adjustment that doesn’t cause significant discomfort, contact your orthodontist during regular hours to schedule a non-emergency visit.
• Aligner Issues: If you encounter minor issues with your clear aligners, such as discomfort or difficulty wearing them, contact your orthodontic provider for guidance.

In situations where dental issues are not emergencies, it’s important to maintain open communication with your orthodontic provider. Our team can provide guidance, schedule non-emergency appointments, and address any concerns you may have as part of your ongoing orthodontic care.

Preventative Measures for Orthodontic Emergencies

Preventing orthodontic emergencies is a key part of ensuring a smooth and successful orthodontic journey. There are several preventative measures you can take to minimize the risk of unexpected issues:

Maintain Excellent Oral Hygiene
Good oral hygiene is crucial for preventing complications such as gum disease and cavities during orthodontic treatment.

• Follow your orthodontist’s instructions for brushing, flossing, and rinsing your mouth. Regular dental check-ups are also essential.

Be Mindful of Your Diet
Certain foods can damage braces and orthodontic appliances.

• Avoid hard, sticky, or crunchy foods that can cause brackets to break or wires to bend. Opt for a diet that is gentle on your orthodontic appliances.

Use Orthodontic Wax as a Preventative Measure
Orthodontic wax (relief wax) can be used proactively to prevent irritation and sores.

• Apply wax to areas that may rub or irritate your mouth before discomfort occurs.

Wear a Mouthguard for Physical Activities
Protecting your teeth during sports or physical activities can prevent injuries and potential orthodontic emergencies.

• Invest in a custom-fit mouthguard or use a boil-and-bite mouthguard to protect your teeth and braces during activities.

Report Changes Promptly
Reporting any changes or issues with your braces or appliances promptly can prevent them from escalating into emergencies.

• If you notice anything unusual, such as a loose bracket or wire, contact us for guidance.

Attend Scheduled Appointments
Regular orthodontic appointments allow your provider to make necessary adjustments and catch potential issues early.

• Attend all scheduled appointments as advised by your orthodontist.

Don’t Let an Orthodontic Emergency Hold You Back!

For immediate care and expert guidance, consult House of Orthodontia today. Our emergency orthodontist in Brooklyn and Manhattan NY and team are here to help you with orthodontic emergencies, creating beautiful smiles that change lives. Book your appointment now!

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