Orthodontic treatments involve the use of various dental equipment like braces, retainers, Invisalign, etc., to straighten your teeth. The treatments help to improve your dental functionalities and facial aesthetics. But sometimes, orthodontic emergencies might arise if there is an issue with your dental braces.
There are various types of orthodontic emergencies that you should be aware of. Minor discomfort and sores are common after installing the braces, this will go away as your mouth adjusts to your new appliances. But if you see oral bleeding or have swallowed a device, you should rush to your orthodontist immediately.
Real orthodontic emergencies are not common, but you should familiarize yourself with them. To manage minor sores after braces installation, you can take a liquid diet for a few days and follow the instructions given by your orthodontist. But if you have really bad mouth sores, which are painful and will not go away easily, then mention it to your orthodontist at your next appointment. Adjusting the braces properly will help you get rid of the problem.
Minor Problems
The following are minor orthodontic issues that are not considered an emergency. You can wait for some time and visit your orthodontist’s office at your convenience to fix the issue. In some cases, your orthodontist will also be able to advise you over the phone. This is why it is essential to talk to your orthodontist right away, whenever you face an orthodontic discomfort. Common minor problems may include general discomfort and loss of retainers/aligners. If you have loose or broken wires or brackets, you can consult your orthodontist and book an appointment to fix them. For poking wires, if your oral cavity is not in pain, it can be considered a minor orthodontic problem.
What are orthodontic emergencies?
A true orthodontic emergency is much more severe and should be addressed immediately by your orthodontist. The serious situations would include:
- Oral infections that have caused inflammation
- Facial or oral injury
- Severe pain in the mouth or face.
In any such situation, you should contact your orthodontist or rush to their dental office immediately.
It is essential not to panic and to remain calm if an emergency has occurred. Harris Orthodontics offers effective treatments for different types of orthodontic emergencies. You can call us to describe your issues, and we will guide you with the next step. Our experienced orthodontist, Dr. Harris, will help you get the best treatments to reduce any pain or discomfort. So if you have any issues related to your treatment at Harris Orthodontics, give us a call today, and our experienced professionals are there to help you out.
