An orthodontic emergency is when you have to see an orthodontist for urgent care, i.e., if the issues are related to your jaw and teeth alignment. An orthodontist is an expert in treating both teeth and jaw alignment-related issues.
Orthodontic Emergencies List
- Ulcers: If you are wearing braces, they may irritate your cheeks. As a result, you may experience ulcers or sores. These ulcers or sores can become extremely painful, due to which you will not be able to sleep or concentrate on any of your work. You could apply orthodontic wax on the pain area for pain management until you see an orthodontist.
- Broken Retainer: Broken retainers do not give proper support to your teeth. In simple words, your teeth will go back to their original condition if you do not get the broken retainers fixed immediately.
- Teeth Discomfort: After wearing Invisalign aligners or braces, if you experience any teeth discomfort even after using the pain relief medication, contact an orthodontist quickly.
- Protruding Wire: A broken bracket can make the braces protrude. You could use some orthodontic wax to cover the sharp point for temporary relief until you visit an orthodontist.
- Swallowing Orthodontic Appliance Piece: This occurs very rarely. But, if this happens, you have to contact an orthodontist immediately. If you fail to see an orthodontist, your life can be in danger.
- Stuck Food: Removing the stuck food between your teeth and the braces is highly essential. Brushing your teeth helps you remove the stuck food effectively. If you are unable to remove the stuck food, speak with your orthodontist about it.
- Bleeding Gums: This can sometimes indicate some internal problems, too. Bleeding gums need immediate attention. Otherwise, it can lead to anemia. Vitamin C deficiency can cause bleeding gums in a few cases. An orthodontist will check your gums, let you know the cause of your bleeding gums, and recommend appropriate treatment.
Finding a good orthodontist in Richmond
For dental emergencies, contact the best Richmond orthodontist. Choose a treatment centre like Estes Orthodontics for the best orthodontic services. Choose an orthodontic centre that is known for offering prompt dental services. Their orthodontist is well-experienced in handling various complicated orthodontic issues. Make sure that you ask all your questions during your first visit.
How to prevent orthodontic emergencies easily?
- Choose a mouthguard if you have the aligners or braces on to prevent any damage if you are into sports.
- Maintain your mouth germs-free. Regular flossing can help to achieve this.
- Follow the suggestions of your orthodontist to prevent the food from getting trapped in your braces.
- Make sure that you go for a dental checkup once every three months if you eat sweets and candies regularly. If you have kids, do not store sweets or any sugary items at your home.
- Avoid eating hard food if you have braces on your teeth. The same is applicable to the braces behind your teeth.
No doubt, orthodontic emergencies can be frustrating. Do not panic. Think about what can be done for temporary pain relief, and visit an orthodontist as early as possible.