Emergency Orthodontist – Webster, MA
How to Effectively Care For Braces-Related Emergencies
From severe tooth pain to soft tissue cuts, dental-related injuries can be painful, anxiety-inducing and inconvenient. Fortunately, orthodontic emergencies are relatively rare, which means you will likely get through your entire treatment without ever experiencing one. However, it is best to be prepared, so that if one does arise, you can swiftly leap into action. With this in mind, keep reading to learn how to effectively care for braces-related emergencies. If you’d prefer to speak directly with our team, don’t hesitate to get in touch!
Why Choose Simply Orthodontics For Emergency Orthodontic Care?
- Team of Talented and Experienced Orthodontists
- Multiple Financial Solutions Available, Including CareCredit
- Morning, Lunchtime, and Afternoon Appointments Available
How To Handle an Orthodontic Emergency
- Give our team a call: Although most orthodontic emergencies are nothing to be alarmed about, it’s best to get in touch with our team so we can get a better understanding of your situation. From there, we can guide you through the next steps (like covering the sharp edge of your braces with dental wax or taking an over-the-counter pain reliever to minimize discomfort) before finding a time for you to come in for a visit.
- See us for treatment: If your orthodontic emergency requires urgent treatment, then we will work with you to find a time to come to our office the very same day. In many cases, however, we can address the root of the problem at your next orthodontic appointment.
- Get the care you need: Fortunately, we’re able to address orthodontic emergencies in an efficient, comfortable, and affordable way. If the situation involved a lost aligner or broken retainer, then we may need to order new parts and schedule a follow-up appointment. In cases where an oral health issue, like a large cavity, is the source, then we will refer you to your general dentist for the necessary care.
The Most Common Orthodontic Emergencies
Whether your orthodontic emergency is relatively minor or one that results in immense pain, it is important to remember that all braces-related injuries require a visit to your orthodontist. Neglecting to seek care when the issue first arises can result in further damage, delaying your treatment timeline significantly. That being said, there are a few actions you can take at home to protect your teeth and gums until your appointment!
Understanding the Cost of Orthodontic Emergencies
As previously mentioned, our team will go above and beyond to treat your orthodontic emergency in an efficient and affordable manner. Even if a more extensive solution is required, you won’t have to stress about the cost; we offer several financial solutions that are designed to keep your treatment affordable! From dental insurance and flexible financing to our preferred plan, there’s a good chance we can find an option that fits within your monthly budget.
How to Prevent Orthodontic Emergencies
While accidents aren’t entirely avoidable, many braces-related emergencies are preventable. With this in mind, make sure to abide by the below best practices throughout your treatment:
- Attend your adjustment appointments.
- Schedule a dental checkup and teeth cleaning every six months.
- Follow the dietary restrictions (i.e., no crunchy foods, no gum, etc.).
- Implement a solid at-home oral hygiene routine.
- Cut back on your sugar intake.
- Avoid poor dental habits, like chewing on ice and nail-biting.
If you have any further questions about orthodontic emergencies or would like to schedule an appointment, contact our office today!
Orthodontic Emergency FAQs
Will my toothache go away on its own?
Normally, the answer is “no.” However, it’s common for discomfort to arise from time-to-time during the teeth-straightening process. So, there’s a chance that your toothache will go away as your teeth adjust to the pressure from your braces. That said, you shouldn’t hesitate to reach out to us if the sensation seems to be getting worse or is present in tandem with other abnormal dental symptoms, like bleeding gums.
How should I sleep with tooth pain?
As we mentioned above, some tooth pain is to be expected during your orthodontic treatment. The good news is that it’s only temporary, and there are several ways you can alleviate it even sooner. The first is sticking to soft foods, like applesauce, yogurt, and oatmeal. The second is sipping on cool water to help provide a slight numbing sensation and soothe any inflammation. The third is taking OTC pain medication as directed on the label.
Should I visit the emergency room first for orthodontic emergencies?
Since hospitals don’t usually have dentists or orthodontists on-staff, it’s only recommended if you’re experiencing potentially life-threatening symptoms (i.e., severe swelling, uncontrollable bleeding, trouble swallowing). If your bracket is loose, a wire is out of place, or you can’t find your retainer, then your first call should be to our office. Once we know a little more about your situation, we can schedule a time for you to come in, hopefully the same day!
What should I keep in my emergency dentistry kit?
Just like you have a First-Aid kit for cuts and other injuries, you should have an emergency dentistry kit for damage to the teeth and gums. If you don’t have one already, then fill up a backpack or small container with the following:
- Dental wax
- Additional orthodontic supplies, like rubber bands
- Sterile gloves (ideally nitrile)
- Gauze pads and dressings
- Cotton balls
- Dental cement (or other temporary filling material)
- Anti-inflammatories such as ibuprofen
- Topical anesthetic such as Orajel or a similar product
- Floss
- Ice pack
We also recommend keeping our phone number and address in this kit so that it’s easily accessible should you need it.
Are toothpicks safe to use?
Toothpicks can be used, but only with the utmost caution. After all, accidentally swallowing one can be deadly. That’s why we always recommend taking a different approach. First, rinse your mouth with warm saltwater (this will help loosen the debris). Then, use pre-threaded floss or a water flosser to remove the debris.
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