Experienced Emergency Orthodontic Care
Occasionally, accidents or discomfort can arise during orthodontic treatment. Emergencies typically fall into two categories: issues with orthodontic appliances and direct injuries to the mouth or teeth. Knowing how to respond can help you stay comfortable until we can provide care.
Orthodontic Appliance Emergencies
Appliances like brackets, wires, or bands may break or become loose during treatment. If this happens, follow the steps below to alleviate discomfort and protect your progress until your appointment.
What to Do for Common Orthodontic Issues
- Loose Brackets or Bands: Call our office if any braces or wires become loose. Leave the bracket or band in place if possible, and contact us during office hours to schedule a repair. If you need to cut a pokey wire, use disinfected nail clippers.
- Broken or Poking Archwire: Gently move the wire away from the irritated area with a cotton swab or pencil eraser. If the wire doesn’t move, cover the end with wax or a small piece of cotton. For persistent irritation, clip the wire using disinfected scissors or nail clippers.
- Irritating Tie Wire: Cover the wire with beeswax or orthodontic wax, or gently tuck it under the archwire using a blunt object.
- Lost Spacers: Losing a spacer is common before a banding visit. Call us to determine if it needs replacement.
Important Note:
Please do not walk in without calling first. Even if you have a regular appointment scheduled, call us so we can allot extra time for repairs.
Discomfort with Orthodontic Treatment
During the first week of wearing braces or after adjustments, it’s normal to experience soreness. You can take acetaminophen or ibuprofen to ease discomfort. A warm washcloth or heating pad may also help if your jaw feels sore.
Orthodontic wax is a great way to relieve discomfort from poking wires. If you need more, call our office. We also supply wax to Walgreens at 1041 Main St. in Longmont. Ask for Mountain View Orthodontics wax, and they’ll provide it at no charge.
Direct Injuries to the Mouth and Teeth
If you sustain a direct injury to the mouth or teeth:
- Apply Ice: Immediately apply ice to reduce swelling.
- Contact Your General Dentist: For displaced, knocked-out, or fractured teeth, see your dentist first to assess the injury. They may need X-rays.
- Orthodontic Adjustments: If your appliances are damaged during the injury, contact us after seeing your dentist to schedule repairs.
After-Hours Orthodontic Emergencies
If you have an emergency after hours and are in pain, contact our office. Instructions will be provided on who to contact for assistance.
Your comfort and safety are our priorities. If you have questions, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to support you every step of the way!