From loose brackets to protruding wires, orthodontic emergencies can be both painful and stressful to handle. While you should schedule an appointment if your braces sustain any damage, there are some cases that are more urgent than others. To learn what constitutes an orthodontic emergency, keep reading!
5 Common Orthodontic Emergencies
As the name suggests, orthodontic emergencies require your orthodontist to immediately intervene to prevent damage to your oral health and get your treatment back on track. A few of the most common examples include:
- Toothaches
- Loose brackets
- Broken wires
- Broken ligatures
- A broken or lost retainer
If you have an alternative to traditional braces, like Invisalign, then it’s important to be aware of the common orthodontic emergencies specific to clear aligner treatment, including misplacing an aligner.
ER or Orthodontist: Where Should You Turn for Help?
Oftentimes, patients assume that they should head to their local ER. However, it’s very rare for hospitals to have an orthodontist on-staff. As a result, the most they can do is help manage your discomfort. Unless you’re experiencing a potentially life-threatening symptom (i.e., difficulty breathing, trouble swallowing, a fractured jaw), you should get in touch with your orthodontist instead. That way, they can learn more about your situation, guide you through the next steps, and schedule a time for you to come in for treatment.
How To: Lower Your Chances of Experiencing an Orthodontic Emergency
The good news is that orthodontic emergencies are largely preventable. Here’s how to lower your risk of experiencing one:
- Don’t eat hard, crunchy, or sticky foods
- Avoid unhealthy dental habits, like biting your nails or chewing on pen caps
- Implement a solid oral hygiene routine
- Visit your dentist every six months for a dental checkup and cleaning
- Wear a mouthguard when playing sports (even non-contact ones)
From broken brackets to loose wires, it’s important to get in touch with your orthodontist if anything goes wrong with your treatment. That way, they can learn more about your situation and help you get back on-track with your plan!
About the Practice
From routine check-in appointments to urgent treatment for orthodontic emergencies, our team at Super Braces of Worcester is here for you! If you do find yourself with a broken bracket, loose wire, or another complication, you’ll be happy to know that our kind, friendly team welcomes dental insurance and CareCredit financing too. So, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team via our website or by phone at (508) 755-2207 if you need emergency orthodontic care.