Orthodontic treatment is designed to gradually move your teeth into better alignment, but unexpected problems can happen along the way. A loose bracket, poking wire, or damaged orthodontic appliance can be uncomfortable and may leave you wondering what to do next.
Knowing how to respond can help protect your treatment and make the situation easier to manage until you can contact your orthodontist.
What Counts as an Orthodontic Emergency?
Not every orthodontic issue requires immediate treatment, but certain problems should be addressed by your orthodontic team. Common situations include a broken or loose bracket, a wire that is poking your cheek or gums, or a damaged orthodontic appliance.
If something feels uncomfortable or you are unsure whether the problem needs attention, contact your orthodontist for guidance. Advanced Orthodontic Center encourages patients experiencing discomfort or concerns during treatment to reach out to the office. Learn more about our Orthodontic services.
What to Do About a Loose Bracket
If a bracket becomes loose but is still attached to the wire, avoid pulling or removing it yourself. Try to leave it in place and contact your orthodontist to determine whether it needs to be repaired.
If the bracket is causing irritation, orthodontic wax may help reduce rubbing against the inside of your cheeks or lips until you can receive professional assistance.
What If a Wire Is Poking?
A loose or shifted wire can sometimes irritate the cheeks, lips, or gums. If possible, cover the irritating area with orthodontic wax rather than trying to cut or manipulate the wire yourself.
Contact your orthodontist and explain what happened. Depending on the situation, the office can let you know whether you need to come in for an adjustment.
What About a Damaged Orthodontic Appliance?
Orthodontic appliances can be an important part of treatment, so a damaged appliance should not simply be ignored. Avoid attempting to repair it at home. Instead, contact your orthodontic office and describe the problem.
Advanced Orthodontic Center offers several orthodontic treatment options, including metal braces, clear braces, lingual braces, Invisalign, retainers, and other orthodontic solutions.
When Should You Contact Your Orthodontist?
When in doubt, it is better to ask. Even if an issue seems minor, your orthodontist can determine whether it could interfere with your treatment or needs to be repaired.
If you experience an orthodontic problem in Mission Viejo or the surrounding Orange County area, contact Advanced Orthodontic Center for guidance. Contact Advanced Orthodontic Center.
Taking care of an orthodontic issue promptly can help keep your treatment on track and make your overall experience more comfortable.