A loose bracket or poking wire can cause a lot of discomfort, derail your treatment timeline, and turn into an unplanned trip to the orthodontist. But that doesn’t mean you have to live in fear of orthodontic emergencies—most are preventable with a few simple habits. Here are five tips to help keep your mouth healthy and your treatment on track.
1. Avoid Hard and Sticky Foods
Hard foods like ice, nuts, and hard candies can break brackets or bend wires, while sticky snacks like caramel and gum can pull appliances loose. Instead of winging it, plan your weekly menu around orthodontist-approved foods. This protects your hardware and helps your treatment stay right on schedule.
2. Wear a Mouthguard During Sports
If you participate in a contact sport or any activity with a risk of face contact, whether it’s a fall, a ball, or a stray elbow, you need a mouthguard. Unexpected dental trauma can cause serious damage to braces, along with the soft tissues in your mouth. A custom-fitted mouthguard will protect both your teeth and your appliance, so you can keep getting your game on.
3. Keep Up with Oral Hygiene
Brushing and flossing twice a day is always important, but it matters even more with braces. Food and plaque can build up around brackets and wires more easily, increasing the risk of irritation, decay, and gum issues that can complicate your treatment. So, keep your oral care routine thorough and consistent.
4. Don’t Ignore Small Issues
A slightly loose bracket or a wire that’s just starting to poke might not scream “emergency,” but even small issues can become big ones if left alone. Call your orthodontist at the first sign of a problem instead of waiting it out. More often than not, you’ll save yourself time, money, and stress with a simple fix.
5. Keep Orthodontic Wax on Hand
Orthodontic wax is a simple tool that can cover a poking wire or irritated bracket until you can get to your appointment. Keeping a small supply at home, at work, and in your bag means you’re never caught without a solution.
Even with the best precautions, orthodontic emergencies can still happen. If you experience a broken bracket, a loose wire, or persistent discomfort, don’t hesitate. A quick call to your orthodontist can prevent a minor issue from causing you discomfort or delaying your new smile.
About the Practice
At OakBrook Dental & Orthodontics, our team provides fast, compassionate care for orthodontic emergencies of all kinds. With evening and weekend appointment availability, we make it easy to get the care you need, when you need it. Dealing with orthodontic pain? Call (469) 526-4040 to schedule an emergency visit, and we’ll see you as soon as possible.