No doubt, orthodontic treatments such as braces, retainers, or even Invisalign aim at providing you with a wonderful smile; however, some problems may occur when they are least expected. Although orthodontists do not consider most issues urgent, understanding the best way to handle an orthodontic emergency would save you stress and pain as well.
Should you find yourself in Marysville and you have an orthodontic issue that needs attending immediately, contacting an emergency orthodontist Marysville, such as Smokey Point Braces, can help you. They are specialists when it comes to the fast and professional resolution of orthodontic problems that require urgent attention.
What Counts as an Orthodontic Emergency?
Not all issues demand emergency treatment; however, some cases should be treated immediately.
The following are reasons why you need to get emergency orthodontic care:
- Extreme swelling of your neck, face, or gums, which failed to go away or worsen.
- Intolerable pain during the night or daytime.
- Facial trauma distressing your teeth, whether you have used braces or not.
- Loose or broken braces that risk being swallowed or cause intense pain.
- Blood that comes out of the mouth cannot be stopped.
When it is extreme, for example, when it is hard to breathe because a brace piece is swallowed or when you have swelling that has clogged your throat, rush to the emergency room.
Non-Emergency Issues You Can Handle at Home
Most typical orthodontic issues are intolerable, but they may not need immediate attention. These can be treated with home remedies or by making a regularly scheduled appointment, like:
- Wires that run into your cheeks and gums and annoy you (use orthodontic wax).
- Lost or broken retainers (Contact your orthodontist if you need a replacement).
- Pain in new braces (painkillers available without prescription can assist).
- Removable brackets or bands that are not painful or pose a risk of getting swallowed.
Invisalign Wear: Why Consistency Matters
Some patients wonder if wearing Invisalign only at night works—unfortunately, it does not. These aligners require 20-22 hours of wear every day to be successful.
Through omitting daytime wear, the result may be:
- Teeth shifting back, delaying progress.
- Aligners not fitting properly, requiring costly adjustments.
- Uneven results or bite issues.
To get the best results, it is best to follow the plan given by your orthodontist and never take a shortcut.
Tips for Managing Orthodontic Emergencies
- Keep orthodontic wax, which is a helpful tool to cover sharp wires or brackets.
- Use warm salt water to relieve sore or irritated gums.
- Save your broken pieces of the appliance to show your orthodontist.
- Talk to your orthodontist at once when you are not sure.
When to Call Your Orthodontist
Do not wait long to see the doctor if you experience discomfort, constant pain, swelling, or broken braces or aligners. Smokey Point Braces and other reliable service providers will be able to assist you during emergencies and keep you on track with your treatment.
Remember, most orthodontic problems may not be an emergency; however, knowing the difference will provide you with the right care at the right time. Remain ready, cool, and cheerful!