With orthodontic treatment, it isn’t uncommon to experience slight changes in pressure, which may result in minimal discomfort. However, contacting our Flower Mound orthodontics office is always important if you are experiencing any painful or uncomfortable symptoms. We use various methods to relieve discomfort during orthodontic treatment and provide emergency orthodontic care in Flower Mound, TX.
Upon your arrival at our office, Dr. Wayne L. Sankey will evaluate your oral appliance and the condition of your teeth to determine the severity of the problem. With the results of your evaluation, we will decide if your orthodontic concern requires emergency care. If you do, there is no need to worry, as Dr. Wayne Sankey is an experienced orthodontist with all the tools needed to help address any issues you may have.
How Will I Know If I Am Dealing With A Dental Emergency?
Dental emergencies can happen anywhere, any time, so it is essential to contact a dental professional as soon as possible. Some dental emergencies include the following:
- A knocked-out permanent tooth
- Dental trauma of injury to the face, teeth, mouth, or jaw
- Infection or swelling in the face, mouth, or gums
- Intense pain or discomfort in the mouth
In any of these emergencies, contact a trusted dental professional. In many cases, a dentist can help restore health and function to your smile and alleviate any symptoms you may have. If, afterward, your orthodontic plan needs to be altered, our team at Flower Mound Orthodontics can work with you to coordinate the care you need.
Common Types of Orthodontic Emergencies
An orthodontic emergency can cause irritation, pain, or discomfort. At Flower Mound Orthodontics, Dr. Sankey offers emergency orthodontic care for those in need. We always recommend calling our office if you are experiencing severe pain or discomfort due to your oral appliance. Our friendly and attentive staff will work with you to schedule an emergency appointment at your earliest convenience.
To help alleviate some of your symptoms before your scheduled appointment, you may be able to follow these key steps:
- Loose appliance: If a loose appliance is poking you or causing irritation, try placing orthodontic wax on the offending part. You only need some wax to place over the irritated area. Be sure to remove the wax before eating or drinking. If the loose part has come off, put it in a bag and bring it to your appointment.
- Misplaced or damaged bracket, tie, or archwire: In some cases, as the teeth shift, you may experience a misplaced archwire. This may mean the archwire pokes the back of the mouth or may irritate the cheek area. In many cases, you may be able to use tweezers or a pencil eraser to push the wire down. Some patients choose to place wax on the wire to reduce irritation.
- Loose bracket: If your bracket or band becomes loose and is still attached to the wire, try to keep it in place and use wax to alleviate discomfort. Wax may also be used to hold the wire in place. If the band is removed or has fallen off, place it in an envelope or bag and bring it to your next appointment.
Orthodontic Emergency Dentistry FAQs
Do you have further questions about our Emergency Orthodontic Care? Continue reading to find answers to commonly asked patient questions from our office.
What helps extreme pain from a dental emergency?
If you are suffering from a dental emergency and are in pain, there are a few options to help until you can see your dentist. The first is to rinse your mouth with warm water and salt. Holding a cold compress against your jaw may also help soothe the pain. You can also take an OTC pain medication such as ibuprofen.
Can the ER help with a dental emergency?
In some cases, the ER can help with a dental emergency. If your pain is uncontrollable and unbearable, the ER may be able to help regulate it. They will not do much more than give you antibiotics and pain medication, but in some cases, this is needed until you can see a dentist. We may recommend visiting the ER if you have severe pain or dental injuries or your emergency is after hours.
What can help me sleep with tooth pain?
If you are experiencing tooth pain that is interrupting your sleep schedule, there are ways to help soothe the pain. It’s common for patients to use an OTC pain medication to make their tooth pain go away. Also, sleeping with your head on a pillow will change your blood flow to stop pain. An ice pack before sleep is an excellent way to reduce swelling and soothe pains. Place the ice pack on the cheek closest to your tooth pain in 15-minute increments.
Is it okay to sleep with a loose braces bracket?
No, you should not sleep with a loose braces bracket as it can pose a choking hazard. You need to cover the bracket before going to sleep. If you have a loose braces bracket, use a piece of orthodontic wax to put it back in place. Use OrthoDots if you do not have wax. OrthoDots use silicone to help protect your tissue from the bracket.
What do I do if I lose my retainer?
Contact our office as soon as you lose your retainer. We must take dental impressions of your teeth to create your new retainer. It’s important to receive a retainer as soon as possible to prevent your teeth from drifting out of their straight position.
What can I do if I get a sore or ulcer from braces?
You can do multiple things if you have an ulcer or mouth sores:
- Take pain medication
- Use a saltwater rinse
- Place orthodontic wax on your brackets
Emergency Orthodontic Care in Flower Mound, TX
While orthodontic emergencies are rare, it is important to have a plan if you are ever faced with one. Dr. Sankey and our team at Flower Mound Orthodontics are equipped with the tools and solutions you need to alleviate your symptoms. Dr. Sankey treats dental emergencies as one of the orthodontic services he offers.
We aim to make your orthodontic treatment as comfortable and effective as possible. If you need emergency orthodontic care, contact our office immediately. Please call 972.539.4747 for a referral to after-hours on-call service.