To gradually shift your teeth into a healthier, properly aligned position, traditional orthodontics use metal brackets and wires to exert just enough pressure on your teeth. While these materials are incredibly durable, they can break. Most often, it’s the result of a sports-related injury or biting into something too crunchy, which is why it is important to protect your mouth and abide by the food restrictions. If you do accidentally break your brackets or wires, however, don’t panic. Keep reading to learn how to properly handle an orthodontic emergency.
#1. Inspect the Damage
Smile-related injuries can be stressful. However, getting the fast, effective treatment you deserve starts with knowing where to turn. For example, if you’re struggling with a potentially life-threatening condition, like a broken jaw or difficulty swallowing, then you should head to the nearest ER or call 911 right away. On the other hand, if you are dealing with a broken bracket, loose wire, or tooth pain, then your first call should be to your orthodontist.
#2. Call Your Orthodontist
Even if you need to seek medical attention first, you need to get in touch with your orthodontist. After all, most emergency rooms don’t have a dental professional on staff. Once you get in touch with your dental team, they can provide you with the next best steps, including first-aid instructions (if needed), and schedule an appointment as soon as possible.
#3. Use Orthodontic Wax to Protect Your Mouth
The sharp edges of your brackets and wires can cause further damage. To prevent that from happening, place a piece of orthodontic wax over any protruding metal. Since the material is water-resistant, it should stay in place until your appointment.
#4. Avoid Chewing Hard or Gummy Foods
If you have a few hours until your appointment, you may need to eat before then. If this is the case, exercise caution by avoiding hard or sticky foods. A few examples include raw carrots, apples, caramel, beef jerky, and pretzels. Instead, stick to yogurt, scrambled eggs, oatmeal, smoothies, and other snacks that require minimal chewing.
When an orthodontic emergency is at hand, your first reaction may be to panic. Instead, take a deep breath and follow the above steps. That way, you’ll be pain-free and back on track to perfectly straight teeth as quickly as possible.
About the Author
From the moment Dr. Tamara L. Jones attended a “Girls in Science Day” and a local dentist took impressions of the attendees’ teeth, she knew she wanted to be in the dental field. After earning her undergraduate degree, she took the dental admission test and got the highest score in the country that year! Now, she is a graduate of the Baylor College of Dentistry – Texas A&M Health Science Center and loves spending her days helping patients get the straight, healthy, beautiful smiles they deserve. If you are struggling with broken braces or are simply interested in learning more about orthodontic treatment, don’t hesitate to visit her website or give her a call at 972-238-7101.