Orthodontic Emergencies: What To Do When Braces Break or Wires Snap

Posted on March 8, 2024

Orthodontic emergencies can occur unexpectedly, causing discomfort and concern for individuals undergoing orthodontic treatment. Whether braces break or wires snap, knowing how to handle these situations promptly can help alleviate discomfort and prevent further complications. Here’s what to do when faced with orthodontic emergencies, with guidance from your trusted Frankenmuth orthodontist.

Assess the Situation

The first step when encountering an orthodontic emergency is to assess the situation calmly and carefully. Examine your braces or appliance to determine the extent of the damage and identify any loose or broken components. If you experience pain, swelling, or bleeding, it’s essential to address these symptoms promptly and seek appropriate medical attention if necessary.

Contact Your Orthodontist

After assessing the situation, contact your Frankenmuth orthodontist as soon as possible to report the emergency and schedule an appointment for repair. Explain the nature of the problem and any symptoms you’re experiencing to ensure that your orthodontist can provide appropriate guidance and prioritize your appointment accordingly.

Manage Discomfort

While waiting for your orthodontic appointment, you can take steps to manage discomfort and alleviate symptoms associated with orthodontic emergencies. Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation. Rinsing your mouth with warm saltwater can also soothe irritated gums and tissues.

Address Loose or Broken Braces

If a bracket or band becomes loose or detached from your tooth, try to keep it in place to prevent further movement or discomfort. If the bracket or band is still attached to the wire, you can use orthodontic wax to secure it temporarily and prevent it from causing irritation or injury to your gums or cheeks. Avoid eating hard or sticky foods that can further damage your braces until your orthodontist can repair them.

Dealing with Broken Wires

Broken wires can cause discomfort and irritation, making it important to address them promptly. If a wire breaks or becomes loose, use a clean pair of tweezers to gently push the wire back into place or trim any protruding ends to prevent them from poking or scratching your cheeks or gums. You can also use orthodontic wax to cover the sharp edges and provide temporary relief until your orthodontist can repair the wire.

Handling Painful Appliances

Some orthodontic appliances, such as expanders or aligners, may cause discomfort or irritation if they become damaged or misaligned. If you experience pain or discomfort due to a broken or malfunctioning appliance, contact your orthodontist for guidance on how to address the issue and alleviate your symptoms. In some cases, your orthodontist may provide instructions for adjusting the appliance or recommend scheduling an emergency appointment for repair.

Follow Your Orthodontist’s Instructions

After addressing the immediate concerns associated with the orthodontic emergency, it’s important to follow your orthodontist’s instructions for ongoing care and maintenance of your braces or appliance. Attend any scheduled follow-up appointments as directed and adhere to any dietary or lifestyle restrictions to ensure optimal healing and treatment progress.

Preventing Future Emergencies

While some orthodontic emergencies are unavoidable, there are steps you can take to minimize the risk of future problems. Follow your orthodontist’s recommendations for oral hygiene, dietary restrictions, and appliance care to keep your braces or appliance in good condition. Avoid chewing on hard or sticky foods, using your teeth as tools, or engaging in activities that may increase the likelihood of orthodontic damage.

In conclusion, orthodontic emergencies can be concerning, but knowing how to handle them promptly and effectively can help minimize discomfort and prevent further complications. By assessing the situation, contacting your Frankenmuth orthodontist, managing discomfort, addressing loose or broken braces, dealing with broken wires, handling painful appliances, following your orthodontist’s instructions, and taking steps to prevent future emergencies, you can navigate orthodontic emergencies with confidence and ensure the success of your treatment. If you experience an orthodontic emergency, don’t hesitate to contact your orthodontist for guidance and assistance.