When you develop an orthodontic emergency, this means not only interruptions to your treatment, but could also cause major discomfort. In today’s blog, your Fort Worth, TX, orthodontist wants to discuss how to ease immediate discomfort, and what you can do to lower the risk of future dental emergencies.
Interruptions to Your Treatment
When you have an aligner become damaged, or a bracket or band come loose in your braces, or issues getting your headgear to fit properly, this means discomfort. However, this also means interruptions to your treatment that could slow your progress and potentially mean longer treatment periods. When encounter an issue like this, please let us know right away. The sooner we address the issue, and the sooner you can resume your course of treatment and continue your journey to an even and healthy smile!
Easing Common Emergency Issues
Common examples of orthodontic emergencies include a wire that is loose, or a loose or lost band or bracket. A cracked aligner could be mean issue that needs attention, as could headgear or appliances that don’t fit as they should. Let us know if your child loses a teeth spacer, or a has a retainer that is damaged. Again, any discomfort that last for more than a day could mean an issue with fit, and you should let us know right away!
Keeping Your Smile Safe
When an issue arises, you can take steps to alleviate discomfort until we can see you. For example, if you have persistent pain, then rinse with warm water and take an over-the-counter pain reliever. If you have a loose band or bracket, the use wax to keep it in place and prevent injury. If a band or bracket comes off completely, then place it in a container and bring it with you. If a wire is causing discomfort, use the erase end of pencil to push it down and away from the gums and cheeks, then coat it in wax. If you have sore places where tissues are rubbing against the braces, then coat these areas with wax to reduce discomfort and injury until we can see you for an appointment.
If you have any questions about how we address emergency situations, or if you need to schedule a visit right away, then please contact our team today. If you would like to learn more about braces or clear Invisalign® aligners, then please give us a call!
DO YOU HAVE QUESTIONS ABOUT EMERGENCY CARE?
We want to help you enjoy your treatment time and maintain optimal oral health. To learn about how our team addresses orthodontic emergency situations, then please call Lake Country Orthodontics in Fort Worth, TX at (817) 236-7846. Our office proudly serves patients who live in Springtown, Rome, and all surrounding communities.