Orthodontic Emergencies: How to Keep Your Smile Safe

Orthodontic emergencies can happen unexpectedly. But what constitutes an emergency? An orthodontic emergency can include problems from severe pain that you can’t control to a broken appliance. If your brackets or wires break, you will need to schedule an appointment to fix them and may incur additional orthodontic fees. Thankfully, most emergencies are completely preventable.

Choose Your Food Wisely

While you may not realize it, eating sticky, crunchy, chewy, or extremely hard foods can damage your braces. We recommend you stick to softer breads, cheeses, protein, and vegetables, and take small bites when you eat. For example, an apple is a healthy snack option, but make sure you cut it first instead of taking a big bite out of the whole apple.

Practice Good Oral Hygiene

If you want to keep your pearly whites looking great when the braces come off, continue to clean your teeth. To keep your teeth and braces in good condition, be sure to brush after every meal and floss daily. When food gets trapped between your brackets, plaque can build up and cause gum disease. We also recommend that you continue to schedule regular checkups with your dentist throughout treatment.

Protect Your Teeth

If you play sports, a mouthguard is crucial to protecting your teeth and appliances from injury. We can help you choose a mouthguard that fits your teeth properly so it will be comfortable to wear. You also want to find one that is durable and easy to clean as well. At your next appointment, simply let us know if you are active in sports or other extracurricular activities. We can help you choose one that will work best for you.

Remember: If you experience an orthodontic emergency and have pain that you cannot control or a piece of your appliance that you need repaired, contact our office to schedule an appointment. A broken appliance means lengthened treatment time if left unrepaired.