Orthodontic treatment is a complex system of many moving parts and strategies. Because of this, orthodontic emergencies are bound to happen sooner or later. Being unprepared could lead to disrupted progress and frustration. This is not to mention the potential discomfort from broken brackets or loose wires.
Fortunately, there are steps you can take to minimize the risk of orthodontic emergencies. Read on to learn how!
1. Keep Up with Your Oral Hygiene
Maintaining excellent oral hygiene is the key to any successful orthodontic treatment. Brushing and flossing regularly helps prevent plaque buildup, which can lead to tooth decay and gum disease. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and floss threaders or interdental brushes to clean around brackets and wires with ease!
2. Eat the Right Foods
Be mindful of what you eat to avoid damaging your braces or aligners. Hard, sticky, or chewy foods can break brackets or bend wires, leading to orthodontic emergencies. Opt for softer foods and cut crunchy fruits and vegetables into small, bite-sized pieces to reduce the risk of damage.
3. Wear Protective Gear when Necessary
If you play sports or do other physical activities, a mouthguard can help protect your appliances and teeth from injuries. Several brands offer custom-fitted mouthguards that can slip over your braces or aligners. These are your best bets for preventing damage to your teeth and safeguarding your treatment.
4. Avoid Bad Oral Habits
Habits like nail-biting, chewing on pens or pencils, and using teeth as tools, can damage braces or aligners. Kick these habits to prevent unnecessary stress on your orthodontic appliances and minimize the risk of emergencies.
5. Keep Supplies Handy
In case of minor discomfort or irritation from braces or aligners, it’s helpful to have an orthodontic emergencies kit with some helpful tools and medicines inside. These may include:
- Orthodontic wax
- Dental floss
- Generic pain relievers
- Pocket mirror
- Lip balm
- Interdental brushes
- Floss threaders
This kit can provide temporary relief by covering a wide range of issues until you can visit your orthodontist.
By following these tips, you can minimize the risk of experiencing orthodontic emergencies and keep your treatment on track. If you feel something is off with your treatment, be sure to reach out to your orthodontist for help. Your orthodontic team is there to support you and ensure a successful outcome for your smile transformation.
About the Author
Has a bracket broken? Did a wire come loose? Are your teeth in severe pain and you don’t know why? Dr. Alex J. Johnson can help you set things right with your orthodontic treatment. He earned his dental doctorate and orthodontic certificate at Washington University. Since then, he has continued his training through prestigious academies like the Pankey Institute and Airway Orthodontics. Call (727) 786-7550 to schedule an emergency appointment at Dr. Alex Johnson Orthodontics, or visit the website to browse the other services they offer.