Emergencies - St. Louis Orthodontist
Orthodontic emergencies are rare, but rest assured that drName at practiceName in St. Louis is here to assist you whenever necessary. If you’re experiencing intense pain or have a broken appliance, it’s important to reach out to us immediately. We will prioritize your case and schedule an appointment accordingly, even if you already have a regular appointment scheduled.

Soreness

Soreness is a common sensation that many individuals experience after getting braces or following adjustments to their orthodontic appliances. It’s important to note that this discomfort is temporary and typically subsides within a few days. Here are some practical strategies to alleviate soreness and promote a more comfortable orthodontic experience:

Over-the-counter pain relievers: Non-aspirin pain relievers such as acetaminophen can be effective in reducing the soreness associated with braces. Follow the recommended dosage instructions and consult your orthodontist or pharmacist if you have any concerns.

Applying heat therapy: Applying a warm cloth or heating pad to your jaws can provide soothing relief. The gentle warmth helps to relax the jaw muscles and alleviate discomfort. Ensure that the heat is not too hot to avoid any burns, and use it for short periods at a time.

Saltwater gargles: Gargling with a mixture of one teaspoon of salt dissolved in an eight-ounce glass of warm water can help alleviate soreness. The saltwater solution has natural anti-inflammatory properties and can provide a soothing effect on the oral tissues. Swish the solution gently in your mouth for about 30 seconds before spitting it out.

Soft food diet: Consuming soft foods during the initial days after getting braces or adjustments can reduce the strain on your teeth and gums, thus minimizing discomfort. Opt for foods like mashed potatoes, yogurt, soups, smoothies, and soft fruits. Avoid hard, sticky, or chewy foods that can further aggravate the soreness.

Proper oral hygiene: Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial during orthodontic treatment. Brushing and flossing regularly, as instructed by your orthodontist, helps prevent plaque buildup and potential gum irritation. Use a soft-bristle toothbrush and gentle, circular motions to clean your teeth and braces effectively.

Remember, if the soreness persists for an extended period or becomes increasingly severe, it’s important to out our office for further guidance. We can help assess your situation and provide personalized advice or make adjustments to your treatment plan if necessary.

Wire Irritations

Wire irritations can occasionally occur during orthodontic treatment when wires become displaced and start poking the soft tissues of your mouth. While it can be uncomfortable, there are several steps you can take to address this issue and find relief:

Relocating the wire: One simple approach is to use a pencil eraser or a cotton swab to gently push the wire away from the irritated area. This can help temporarily alleviate the discomfort caused by the wire poking the soft tissues.

Using dental wax or cotton: If relocating the wire doesn’t provide sufficient relief, you can cover the end of the wire with a small amount of dental wax. Dental wax is a soft, pliable material that creates a protective barrier between the wire and your mouth, reducing irritation. Alternatively, you can use a small piece of cotton, such as a ball or roll, to create a cushioning effect between the wire and the affected area.

Trimming the wire: In cases where the wire continues to cause significant discomfort and cannot be easily relocated or covered, you may consider trimming the wire. To do this, ensure that you use clean scissors or nail clippers that have been sterilized with alcohol. Carefully cut the wire as close as possible to the nearest bracket or attachment. However, it’s crucial to consult your orthodontist before attempting any wire trimming on your own, as they can provide guidance and ensure the proper adjustment is made.

It’s important to note that while these measures can provide temporary relief, it’s importa to schedule an appointment  as soon as possible to address the underlying issue to reposition or adjust the wire properly, resolving the irritation and ensuring your treatment progresses smoothly.

Loose Bracket

During your orthodontic treatment, it’s not uncommon to encounter a loose bracket. We understand the importance of addressing this issue promptly to ensure your comfort and the success of your treatment. Here’s a helpful guide on what to do:

Contact Us: If you notice a loose bracket, it’s crucial to reach out to our orthodontic practice right away. By contacting us, you’ll receive professional guidance on whether the bracket requires immediate repair or if it can wait until your next scheduled appointment. 

Cutting the Wire or Removing a Bracket: In certain situations, our orthodontist may advise you to cut the wire or remove the loose bracket to alleviate discomfort and prevent further damage. Should this be necessary, it’s vital to use clean and sterilized nail clippers. Ensure that you wash the clippers thoroughly with soap and warm water, and then sterilize them using rubbing alcohol or another appropriate disinfectant. Exercise caution as you carefully cut the wire or remove the bracket as instructed, avoiding unnecessary pressure or injury.

Scheduling a Repair Appointment: Regardless of whether you have temporarily addressed the issue, we highly recommend scheduling a repair appointment as soon as possible with our orthodontist. During this appointment, our skilled team will assess the situation, reattach or replace the bracket, and make any necessary adjustments to ensure the smooth progression of your treatment. By scheduling the repair appointment, you prevent any potential disruptions and maintain the effectiveness of your orthodontic plan.

Don’t hesitate to contact our office for any questions or concerns you may have. We are here to provide you with exceptional care, ensuring your orthodontic experience is comfortable and successful.

Lost Separators

Losing a separator, also known as a spacer, during orthodontic treatment is a relatively common occurrence. If you find yourself in this situation, there are a few steps you can take to address the issue:

Contact Us: Reach out to our orthodontic practice and inform us about the lost separator. We can provide guidance on whether immediate replacement is required or if it can be managed until your next scheduled appointment.

Assess the situation: If you’re not sure about the urgency of the lost separator, take a moment to inspect the area where it was placed. Look out for any discomfort, noticeable changes in tooth alignment, or other differences. This self-assessment will enable you to provide our orthodontist with additional information when you contact us.

Remember, each situation is unique, and the decision to replace a lost separator depends on various factors specific to your treatment. By promptly contacting our orthodontic practice, we’ll be able to provide appropriate instructions tailored to your individual needs.

Loose Wire

Dealing with a loose wire during your orthodontic treatment can be bothersome, but there are steps you can take to manage the situation until you can see the orthodontist. Here’s what you can do:

Realigning the wire: If you notice a loose wire, you can try using clean and sterile tweezers to carefully guide it back into its proper position. Gently apply pressure to push the wire back into place, securing it within the brackets. Be cautious and gentle to avoid causing further discomfort or damage.

Using dental wax: If you’re unable to reposition the loose wire, dental wax can be a useful temporary solution. Take a small piece of dental wax and mold it around the bothersome wire, creating a protective barrier between the wire and the soft tissues of your mouth. This helps prevent irritation and discomfort caused by the loose wire. Make sure to replace the dental wax as needed to maintain its effectiveness.

Cutting the wire: In cases where the loose wire continues to cause significant discomfort and cannot be easily repositioned or covered, you may need to cut it. To do this, use clean and sterile nail clippers. Prior to cutting, wash the clippers thoroughly with soap and warm water, and then sterilize them with rubbing alcohol or an appropriate disinfectant. Carefully cut the wire behind the last bracket where it is securely held. Remember to exercise caution and avoid cutting too close to the bracket to prevent accidental injury.

It’s important to note that while these measures can provide temporary relief, it’s important to contact our office and scheduling a repair appointment as soon as possible. We will be able to address the loose wire and make any necessary adjustments to ensure your treatment progresses smoothly and effectively.