Orthodontic Emergencies: What to Do When Problems Arise

Learn what to do if you experience a problem with your braces or Invisalign

Orthodontic treatment is a journey toward a healthier, more aligned smile, but like any journey, it can come with unexpected bumps along the way. While taking proper care of your braces or Invisalign aligners will lessen the chances that you’ll have an orthodontic emergency, unforeseen issues can still arise. When an emergency arises, you’ll want to be able to turn to a knowledgeable orthodontist for help.

The Importance of Professional Guidance

One of the many benefits of working with the orthodontists at Adirondack Orthodontics is that you can access the help of an experienced professional at a moment’s notice. Unlike companies that offer DIY tooth-straightening solutions, we won’t leave you high and dry when you have questions or concerns. Adirondack Orthodontics is your source for professional orthodontic treatments and guidance during the entire process. If you ever have an orthodontic emergency, we will be there to help.

But what do you do when a problem arises with your braces or aligners, especially if you can’t get to our office right away? Keep reading to learn more about some of the most common emergencies and how we can help you handle them.

Broken Wires & Loose Brackets

Wires and brackets are essential components of braces. While this situation doesn’t happen often, they can sometimes become loose or break under enough pressure. If this happens to you, take the following actions immediately:

• Orthodontic Wax: If a wire is poking out and causing discomfort, you can use orthodontic wax to cover the sharp end and prevent it from irritating your mouth.
• Clipping the Wire: If the wire is protruding too much and wax isn’t enough, you can sterilize a pair of nail clippers or small wire cutters and carefully clip the wire. Ensure you only clip the wire as a last resort and be cautious not to swallow any pieces.
• Contact Your Orthodontist: Schedule an appointment as soon as possible for a professional repair. Continuing treatment with damaged components can hinder progress and cause more discomfort.

Damaged Aligners

Invisalign aligners are designed to be durable, but they can still crack or break under certain circumstances. If this happens to you, you can take the following steps:

• Use Previous Aligners: If your current aligner is damaged and cannot be worn, revert to wearing your previous set to maintain your progress.
• Contact Your Orthodontist: Notify your orthodontist immediately to arrange for a replacement. Avoid skipping aligners as it can delay your treatment and affect your results.

Lost Retainers or Aligners

Misplacing retainers or aligners is a common issue, especially if they are not stored in their designated case. We recommend always putting your retainers or aligners in the same place to reduce this risk.

The only way to manage a lost retainer or aligner is to contact our team for replacement. If your aligners were lost, then as suggested above, you can wear your previous set of aligners until you receive a new set. But if you lose your retainer, you’ll simply have to wait until it’s replaced.

Intense Mouth Pain or Sores

Some discomfort is expected with braces and aligners, especially after adjustments or switching to a new set of aligners. However, excessive pain or the development of sores can indicate a problem. The following tips can help with mouth pain or sores:

• Orthodontic Wax: Use wax to cover any brackets or wires causing irritation.
• Saltwater Rinse: Rinse your mouth with warm saltwater to alleviate pain and promote healing.
• Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage discomfort.
• Contact Your Orthodontist: If the pain is intense or persistent, contact your orthodontist to discuss the symptoms and schedule an appointment if necessary.

Preventing Orthodontic Emergencies

While not all emergencies can be prevented, there are steps you can take to minimize risks:

• Follow Care Instructions: Adhere strictly to the care guidelines provided by your orthodontist, including dietary restrictions and cleaning protocols.
• Regular Check-ups: Attend all scheduled appointments to ensure your treatment is progressing smoothly and any potential issues are addressed promptly.
• Protective Gear: If you have braces, wear a mouthguard during sports or physical activities to protect your teeth from damage.

Turn to Adirondack Orthodontics

The team at Adirondack Orthodontics will equip you with the tools and knowledge you need to prevent orthodontic emergencies as much as possible. But should an emergency occur anyway, we’re here to help. Contact us if you have further questions about how to handle your situation.