EMERGENCY ORTHODONTIC CARE

Providing You Peace of Mind When Faced With Orthodontic Emergencies

WHAT IS CONSIDERED AN ORTHODONTIC EMERGENCY?

If you have braces, it is important to understand the difference between standard orthodontic issues and true emergencies. Discomfort, soreness, pain and tenderness when first getting braces and after adjustment appointments are common. However, if you experience any of the following, it may be a sign that you need to seek emergency attention:

If you have experienced major trauma, call 911 or go to the Emergency Room.

While minor pain and discomfort are normal, unmanageable pain is a sign of a more serious issue. Visit an emergency dentist to find the source of the pain.

Visit the Emergency Room or Urgent Care. Uncontrollable bleeding is a sign of a major cut or infection that must be treated by a physician.

Emergency orthodontic care

After being treated by a specialist for your initial medical or dental emergency, contact Maddux Orthodontics to schedule a follow-up appointment. If you are not sure whether or not you need emergency orthodontic care, contact our team as soon as possible. Our compassionate and expert team will guide you through your orthodontic issue, provide instructions for at-home relief and determine whether you need to visit a specialist or come into our offices. Young children undergoing early orthodontic treatment may not be afraid to acknowledge an issue or emergency, let them know broken orthodontics can be fixed.

Orthodontic Issues That Are Not Emergencies

In addition to minor pain and discomfort, there are several other routine, normal orthodontic issues that you may run into. These orthodontic issues include:

Mouth Sores

Wires, brackets and other orthodontic appliances can sometimes cause mouth sores on the insides of the cheeks and lips. If you are experiencing mouth sores, try placing dental wax over the wire or bracket that is causing the irritation. Try using a warm, saltwater rinse or topical anesthetic to alleviate pain. If these measures do not work, call us to schedule an appointment. 

Poking Wire

 Sometimes, the end of an archwire can poke the insides of the cheeks or gums. If this occurs, try placing orthodontic wax over the poking wire, or use a Q-tip or a pencil eraser to gently push the wire back into place.

Broken Band

Bands, also known as ligatures, are the tiny runner bands that hold the wire and bracket together on the tooth. If the band comes apart from the bracket, try using a pair of tweezers to gently replace the band. If the band has become damaged or cannot be replaced, contact our offices.

 

Damaged Retainer

If your retainer becomes damaged, lost or broken, contact us as soon as possible. Going too long without a fitting retainer can cause your teeth to shift.

Loose Bracket or Wire

It is common for brackets and wires to something loosen or break. If a piece of your appliance comes off, please store the piece in a plastic bag or container and bring it with you to your next appointment with us. If the loose bracket or wire is causing irritation, try placing orthodontic wax over the affected area and using a warm, saltwater rinse to alleviate discomfort.

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Edwin Drive

351 Edwin Drive, Suite 104
Virginia Beach, VA 23462

First Colonial

933 First Colonial Road, Suite 204
Virginia Beach, VA 23454

OFFICE HOURS:
Monday: 9am – 5pm
Tuesday & Thursday: 7am – 4pm
Wednesday: 9am – 5pm

CALL OR TEXT US 757-499-3530