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Orthodontic Emergencies: How to Handle Problems with Your Treatment
Are your braces bothering you or causing pain? You might be wondering if it's an orthodontic emergency. During orthodontic treatment, it's common to experience some discomfort, especially at the beginning. But in most cases, there's no need to panic—it's not an emergency!
So how do you distinguish between simple, temporary discomfort and a real problem that requires a quick consultation? We'll break it down in this article.
What Is Considered an Orthodontic Emergency?
Three main situations should alert you and lead you to contact a professional quickly:
- Lost Appliance: The advantage of removable appliances is that you can take them out, but be careful not to misplace them! If you lose your appliance, new impressions will need to be taken to make a new one, which delays the treatment.
- Broken or Damaged Appliance: Although they are sturdy, appliances can sometimes crack or break due to wear and tear or from eating hard or acidic foods. Contact your orthodontist quickly to get it repaired and avoid injury.
- Trauma to a Tooth: A blow to a tooth with an appliance on is always alarming and potentially problematic (risk of breakage, deformation, debonding...). A check-up is necessary.
What Is Not an Orthodontic Emergency?
Certain discomforts are common at the beginning of treatment but do not constitute emergencies:
- Irritation of the Mucous Membranes (lips, cheeks, tongue): This is a normal adaptation phenomenon. Your orthodontist has likely given you orthodontic wax to protect sensitive areas.
- Pain and Sensitivity: Again, some discomfort is to be expected as the teeth begin to move. Adjust your diet if necessary.
FAQ
Is swallowing orthodontic wax dangerous?
No need to worry, the wax used is typically made from natural beeswax and is not harmful if accidentally swallowed.
Is it my dentist or my orthodontist who reattaches a debonded bracket?
It's the orthodontist's job to reattach a bracket or band, using the same techniques as during the initial placement.
Is a poking wire an emergency?
If the wire is poking and hurting you, try to gently push it back into place with a disinfected pair of tweezers or the eraser end of a pencil. You can cover the end with wax in the meantime. Report the problem to your orthodontist to ensure everything is in order at your next visit.