With orthodontic treatment, it isn’t uncommon to experience slight changes in pressure, which may result in minimal discomfort. However, it is always important to contact our Flower Mound orthodontics office if you are experiencing any painful or uncomfortable symptoms. We have a variety of methods we use to relieve discomfort during orthodontic treatment.
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 determine if your orthodontic concern requires emergency care. If you do there is no need to worry, as Dr. Wayne Sankey is an experienced orthodontist and has all of 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, at any time, so it is important 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 the event of any of these emergencies, be sure to contact a trusted dental professional. In many cases, a dentist can help restore health and function to your smile, as well as 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 you have a loose appliance poking you or causing irritation, try placing orthodontic wax on the offending part. You only need a small bit of wax and just need to place it over the area that is irritating. Be sure to remove the wax before eating or drinking. If the loose part has come off, be sure to put it in a bag and bring it to your appointment.
- Misplaced or damaged bracket, tie, or archwire: In some cases, as the teeth begin to 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 any 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 scheduled appointment if possible.
Emergency Dentistry FAQs
Do you have further questions about our Emergency Orthodontic Care? Continue reading to find answers to questions that patients commonly ask in 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 are able to see your dentist. The first is to rinse your mouth with a mixture of 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.
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. Using an OTC pain medication is a common way patients make their tooth pain go away. Also sleeping with your head elevated on a pillow will change your blood flow to stop pain. Using an ice pack before going to sleep is a good way to reduce any swelling and soothe pains.
Emergency Orthodontic Care in Flower Mound, TX
While orthodontic emergencies are rare, it is important to have a plan in place 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.
Our goal is to make your orthodontic treatment as comfortable and effective as possible. If you are in need of emergency orthodontic care, be sure to contact our office as soon as possible. Please call 972.539.4747 for referral to after-hours on-call service.