Navigating Common Braces Emergencies: A Practical Guide

When you look at the people who wear braces, it may look fancy to you. Orthodontic braces offer a straight solution to various problems like 

• Crooked Teeth 
• Crowded Teeth
• Gapped Teeth

Correcting these issues is very important as it can result in tooth loss and various other problems. It’s extremely effective. But it can cause problems sometimes inside your cheeks, such as irritation, plaque buildup, etc. Knowing about brace-related issues and the solution can help you alleviate the discomfort. It improves the treatment effectiveness, too. 

For braces, you must always approach an experienced orthodontist. Rose Rock Orthodontics would be your best choice if you want an experienced and the best Orthodontist Enid. Visit their website to schedule an appointment for braces. 

Protruding or Broken Wires 

Causes:

Tooth Movement: When you wear braces, your teeth start to shift slowly and move into their new position. Due to this, the archwire may extend and cause irritation on the inner walls of your cheeks. It may irritate your lips, too, sometimes. 

Accidents: Sudden accidents can dislodge or break wires.

Solutions: Cover the sharp ends of the wire with orthodontic wax, as it reduces irritation.  This can provide a temporary and quick solution to your problem.

Loose or Broken Brackets

Causes: 

• Hard or Sticky Foods: Consuming such foods can weaken or detach brackets.

Solutions: Leave the bracket in place and apply orthodontic wax to prevent irritation, if it is still attached. In case it is detached, see your orthodontist. 

• Avoid: Refrain from chewing on the side with the loose bracket until it’s repaired.

Mouth Sores and Irritation

Causes: 

• Initial Adjustment: New braces can rub inside your cheeks and cause irritation. This may result in sores. 

Solutions: Apply orthodontic wax on the rough area to find some relief. 

• Use over-the-counter oral gels to numb discomfort. It is better to contact your orthodontist once, before using such oral gels. 

What should you avoid?

Touching or picking at sores to prevent further irritation.

Swallowed Appliance Parts

Causes: Swallowing small components accidentally, like brackets or bands. 

Solutions: Don’t panic when you swallow tiny parts of braces by mistake. These tiny parts pass through the digestive system without any issue. Very rarely, they cause any problems. If you observe something like diarrhea, dizziness, or any stomach discomfort, you must see your specialist. 

Food Debris Stuck in Braces

Causes:

• Braces Design: Brackets and wires can trap food particles.
• Diet: Certain food items, like chocolates, meat, and potatoes, are more likely to become lodged.

Solution: Use interdental brushes to get rid of the trapped food. 

• Cut down on sticky and hard foods from your diet, as they can exacerbate the problem.

Causes:

• Wear Over Time: Bands around molars may loosen with use.
• Dietary Factors: Hard or sticky foods can contribute to loosening.

Solutions:

• Avoid Chewing: Refrain from chewing on the side with the loose band.
• Contact Orthodontist: Schedule an appointment to have the band resecured or replaced.

What care must you take after putting on braces?

• Strictly follow the dietary suggestions of your orthodontist. 
• Keep oral hygiene as your top priority.
• Using mouthguards is crucial during physical activities. 

You don’t really have to look for other options, as the problems caused by braces can be managed at home, by taking simple care. Consult your orthodontist if you consistently experience pain or any discomfort.