SERVICES
Emergency Care
At Cometti Orthodontics, we are always here to help you when you need us the most. If you experience a broken appliance or intense pain, we encourage you to call us as soon as possible. Our dedicated team will make every effort to accommodate you and schedule an appointment promptly. Even if you have a regular appointment already scheduled, please notify us immediately if you require an appliance repair.
What to Do in Case of Emergency
During your orthodontic treatment, it is normal to experience some initial soreness or minor aches as your teeth adjust. However, genuine orthodontic emergencies are rare. If you suspect an emergency situation, it's essential to assess the severity of the problem. Determine whether it requires immediate attention or if it's a minor issue that can be temporarily addressed until you visit our office.
A Major Emergency
There are only a few true orthodontic or dental emergencies that may require immediate attention. These include:
Trauma or injury to the teeth, face, or mouth
Infection or swelling of the gums, mouth, or face
Severe and unmanageable discomfort or pain in these areas
In such situations, seeking help promptly is crucial. You may need to visit an emergency room if that is the most appropriate course of action. However, in most cases, it is best to start by contacting your regular dentist. They are trained to handle a wide range of dental problems and can provide the necessary diagnostic tools, anesthetics, and treatments. For example, if you have a fractured tooth, your dentist will address the immediate concern and arrange for the tooth's restoration. Following that, we can adjust your orthodontic treatment plan accordingly. Similarly, severe pain or swelling may indicate an infection or disease that a dentist or periodontist is best equipped to handle.
Some Minor Troubles
Fortunately, the majority of orthodontic problems are minor compared to emergencies but may still cause discomfort or irritation. In such cases, it is recommended to try and alleviate the immediate cause of discomfort before scheduling an appointment with our office. Here are a few common orthodontic problems and some tips to temporarily relieve them at home:
This issue is often caused by eating hard or sticky foods or playing with the braces. If the band or bracket is still attached to the wire, leave it as is and avoid attaching any elastics to it. You can cover it with orthodontic wax if it irritates the inside of your mouth. If the band or bracket has come off completely, save it and bring it with you to your appointment. In either case, please contact our office to inform us of the situation, and we will schedule a visit to address the issue.
As your teeth shift during treatment, the archwire that connects them may occasionally poke near the back of your mouth or irritate your cheeks. You can try moving the wire into a more comfortable position using a pencil eraser or a Q-tip. If the wire doesn't budge, you may be able to carefully trim the end with a nail clipper sterilized in alcohol. However, we advise you to contact our office for guidance or instructions before attempting any modifications. In some cases, tweezers can be used to gently adjust a misplaced wire or tie causing discomfort.
When wires or brackets cause irritation, applying orthodontic wax to the metal parts can often alleviate the discomfort. As always, please reach out to our office, and we will schedule a time to see you and resolve the issue promptly.
During orthodontic treatment, it is normal for teeth to become slightly loosened as they shift into their new positions. This movement may occasionally be accompanied by tenderness, especially after braces are placed or adjusted. For minor soreness, over-the-counter pain relievers can be helpful. Additionally, saltwater rinsing twice a day can provide relief: mix one teaspoon of salt in an 8-ounce glass of warm water, rinse for 30 seconds, and spit out. Applying a warm washcloth or heating pad to the outside of the jaw may also offer some comfort.
Contact Our Office
While genuine emergencies are rare, our goal is to ensure your orthodontic treatment is as comfortable as possible. If you require further advice or assistance, please do not hesitate to contact us. We are here to help!
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