We never think that something will happen to us until it does! Orthodontic emergencies are no different, and while it might be unpleasant to think about, it’s essential to know what to do and plan ahead. Fortunately, as a Southington Orthodontics patient, you’re not alone at any time in your journey to a straighter smile, even when things get a little off track. We are here for your orthodontic emergencies!
What Is An Orthodontic Emergency?
Orthodontic emergencies are like spilling coffee on your favorite book. Some spills are minor and can be dabbed away with a napkin or fixed with a hair dryer, while others require you to make a trip to the bookstore for a new copy. Here are a few examples of orthodontic emergencies:
- Broken or Loose Braces: Imagine wearing a necklace and suddenly feeling a bead roll down your shirt or noticing one of the stones is unstable. A loose or broken bracket is the orthodontic version of this scenario. It’s a bummer, but it’s fixable!
- Poking or Protruding Wires: Have you ever had a pesky tag on a shirt that won’t stop rubbing against your skin? Nothing is wrong with the shirt, but it might drive you insane all day! Now replace the tag with a wire poking the inside of your cheek. Though a misplaced wire doesn’t mean your braces are damaged, it can be annoying and cause open wounds or sores in your mouth.
- Lost or Broken Retainers or Aligners: This is like losing a piece of the furniture you’re trying to assemble. The process won’t be as easy, and the finished look isn’t stable. These custom-made appliances are crucial to creating and maintaining that perfect alignment. It can take as little as one day to see a noticeable difference in your smile when you’re not wearing your equipment!
- Severe Pain or Discomfort: If your mouth suddenly feels like a punching bag in a training gym, you should contact our office immediately. Discomfort is expected (your bones are being moved, after all!), but pain is not normal and should be addressed right away.
Why Is It Important To Address Orthodontic Issues Quickly?
Picture this: You’ve made a delicious pasta sauce, and you just mixed it in with your pasta in your bowl. After eating, you go to clean up, only to realize your pasta sauce has become a stubborn, crusty mess that won’t come off the pot. But if you had cleaned it up immediately before eating, making the pot spotless would be a breeze. Orthodontic emergencies are a bit like that pasta sauce. The longer you wait, the more uncomfortable and tricky they can be to clear up, prolonging your overall treatment time.
Being proactive about orthodontic emergencies is the secret ingredient to a smooth and successful treatment journey. Don’t let minor hitches turn into significant roadblocks!
How Does Southington Orthodontics Have Your Back During An Emergency?
Just as you rely on a trusty GPS to guide you through unfamiliar routes, Southington Orthodontics is here to guide you through any orthodontic curveballs.
With our state-of-the-art technology, like digital scanning and 3D X-rays, you’re receiving top-notch, efficient treatment. And let’s not forget our stellar team, always ready and eager to assist. From your first phone call with us and beyond, our dedicated professionals are committed to making you feel welcome, valued, and in expert hands. At Southington Orthodontics, our mission goes beyond just straightening teeth. We’re here to ensure you feel supported and confident every step of the way. So, please relax and enjoy the journey; we’ve got everything under control!
What Can You Do Until Your Appointment?
Here are some quick and easy steps you can take that will hold you over until Dr. Camanocha can make repairs.
- Orthodontic Wax to the Rescue: Got a pesky wire poking at your cheek? Roll a tiny bit of wax between your fingers and place it over the troublemaker. Voila! Instant relief. Orthodontic wax can also hold a loose or broken bracket in place.
- Saltwater Rinses: Mix a teaspoon of salt in warm water and swish it around your mouth. It’s like a spa day for your gums!
- Soft Foods are Your BFF: If your teeth are sore, think mashed potatoes, yogurt, and smoothies. It’s a great excuse to indulge in that ice cream you’ve been eyeing! Soft food will also help keep the condition of your damaged braces from worsening.
- Cold Compress: A cold compress on the affected area can be a game-changer for discomfort and swelling. It’ll provide much-needed cool relief and reduce the swelling.
- Snip The Wire: You can snip a protruding wire, but you must be careful not to swallow the pieces of metal!
- Wear Your Previous Trays: If you’ve lost or broken your clear aligners, don’t panic! Wear your previous set to ensure your teeth don’t regress too much.
Remember, these are temporary solutions; you should contact us immediately to schedule more permanent fixes.
Do not try to glue or remove any brackets or archwires.
Avoid Unnecessary Panic With Southington Orthodontics!
Whenever something in your orthodontic experience has gone awry, please contact us so we can advise based on your unique needs and schedule you for an emergency appointment.
As a Southington Orthodontics patient, you’ll never experience a moment of uncertainty or confusion. Whatever questions you have, and no matter what happens during your straight smile journey, we’ve got you covered. Call our Southington, CT office to schedule your free consultation and learn more!
