Preventing Orthodontic Emergencies: 5 Key Tips to Protect Your Smile

For many patients, their orthodontic treatment goes smoothly from start to finish. For others, though, painful and distressing mishaps occur; rarely, a true orthodontic emergency develops! While you cannot completely eliminate the risk that something like that will happen to you, there are practical steps you can take to protect your smile and your orthodontic gear throughout your treatment. Here are five key tips to that end:

Maintain Excellent Oral Hygiene

Oral hygiene is of utmost importance during orthodontic treatment! Brush after every meal and floss at least once daily. Clean between brackets and wires with special tools like interdental brushes or water flossers. By removing food particles and plaque, you can help prevent gum disease, tooth decay, and infections that may complicate your treatment and lead to emergencies.

Be Mindful of Your Diet

What you eat has a direct impact on the integrity of your orthodontic appliances. Avoid hard, sticky, or chewy foods such as nuts, popcorn, caramel, and ice. These foods can damage brackets or bend wires, leading to discomfort and urgent repairs. Opt for softer options and cut tough foods, like raw fruits and veggies, into small pieces.

Wear Your Orthodontic Appliances Correctly

If you have removable appliances, such as retainers or clear aligners, follow your orthodontist’s instructions regarding wear time and care. Always store them in their protective case when not in use and clean them regularly. If you play sports and wear braces, always wear a mouthguard that is designed for use with orthodontic appliances.

Failing to wear your appliances as prescribed or handling them carelessly can result in damage or loss, which may interrupt your progress and require an emergency visit.

Avoid Harmful Habits

Certain habits can jeopardize your orthodontic treatment. Do not chew on pens, pencils, your fingernails, or other non-food items. These actions can break brackets, warp wires, or even damage your teeth. Stay alert to these behaviors and replace them with safer alternatives, such as using a stress ball, to minimize the risk of an orthodontic emergency.

Attend Regular Orthodontic Checkups

Consistent appointments with your orthodontist are essential to monitor the progress of your treatment and address small issues before they escalate. Report any discomfort, loose brackets, or poking wires promptly, rather than waiting for your next scheduled visit. Early communication and routine care allow your provider to address minor problems and help prevent them from developing into emergencies.

An orthodontic emergency can be stressful! Fortunately, by following some prudent precautions, you can keep your risk to a bare minimum.

Meet the Practice

Dr. Patricia Simon is a highly skilled orthodontist who is passionate about continually improving herself through ongoing education. She and our team provide a range of orthodontic services, as well as emergency orthodontic care. To learn more about how we may be able to serve you, contact our Dallas office at 214-826-9000.