Orthodontic Emergencies in Austin

Why Select Austin Family Orthodontics in Austin for Orthodontic Emergencies?

We have such a large, extended family of patients because of our same-day appointments, our highly trained and compassionate staff, and our experienced, compassionate team of dental specialists. If you need emergency orthodontic services, call our Austin office first and let us help you.

How Do I Prevent Orthodontic Emergencies?

Although accidents happen, there are preventive measures you can take to minimize their occurrence. If you're instructed to avoid certain foods, such as those that are hard, sticky, or crunchy, then avoiding those foods can prevent an orthodontic emergency. If you play sports, wear a prescription mouthguard and always use the correct safety gear.

Avoiding the following foods can minimize emergencies:

• Ice
• Bubble Gum
• Doritos/Fritos/Cheetos/Pretzels
• Gummy Bears/Fruit Rollups
• Now N Laters/Starburst/Skittles/Taffy
• Tootsie Rolls/Caramel
• Hard Cookies/Hard Candies (such as Peppermints & Life Savers)
• Hard Pizza Crust/Hard Breads (such as Toasted Bagels & Hard Rolls)
• Beef Jerky/Slim Jims
• Spareribs/Pork Chops
• Chicken on the bone (use a knife and fork to cut it off the bone)
• Corn on the Cob (cut the corn off the cob before eating)
• Apples and Carrots (cut them into bite-sized pieces & use your back-molar teeth to chew)
• Pens/Pencils/Fingernails (these aren't even food, so keep them out of your mouth!)

How to Manage an Orthodontic Emergency

True orthodontic emergencies are rare, but they do occur. We're here to help you when you have an orthodontic emergency, so if you experience severe pain or have a painful problem that you're unable to resolve, call us. When you're at this point, and it's outside of regular business hours, call (847) 268-8655 and leave a message. Be sure to leave a detailed message and a call-back number so we can reach you.

Surprisingly, many orthodontic emergencies can be temporarily addressed at home, such as the following:

Minor Pain and Irritation

Minor pain and soreness are normal for one or two days after an adjustment. You can use over-the-counter remedies such as Tylenol, but be aware that anti-inflammatory medications can inhibit tooth movement and slow your treatment, so, if possible, avoid aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, and the like.

Use a saltwater rinse for minor pain. Use one teaspoon of salt to eight ounces of warm water and rinse for 30 seconds at least twice daily. Use Orabase or Oragel on specific sites of discomfort or cover them with dental wax.

Protruding or Poking Wire

Use a pencil eraser to push the wire back into place. You can also dry the area and cover it with dental wax.

Loose Bracket or Band

If the bracket or band is still on the wire, leave it where it is. If it's uncomfortable, cover it with dental wax. If the bracket has come out entirely, wrap it in a tissue, place it in a baggie, and bring it to your next appointment.

Loose Wire

If you're unable to replace the wire using tweezers, use a fingernail clipper to clip the wire behind the last tooth to which it's fastened. If that's uncomfortable, cover it with dental wax.

Substance Stuck in Braces

Use dental floss, your toothbrush, or a water flosser to try to dislodge the object. If that is unsuccessful, then call our office.

Headgear Irritation or Facemask Doesn't Fit

Headgear or facemask discomfort can be caused by incorrect use. Consult the instructions you were provided by our office if you’re experiencing discomfort. If the facebow is bent, please contact our orthodontic office for assistance. However, your headgear or facemask will become more comfortable as you wear it. Be sure to wear it for at least the 12 to 14 hours that we prescribed.

Loose Palatal Expander

It's unlikely that you'll be able to correct a loose palatal expander at home. If yours is loose, don't try to tighten it and call our office for assistance.

Missing Expander Hole

If you can't get your key into the hole of the expander screw, most likely the last turn wasn't completed. Insert the key into the hole you used most recently and push it until the key stops near the back of your child's mouth. Be sure you can see the next hole closer to the front of the mouth. Remove the key without turning the screw backwards again. The head should be toward the base of the tongue with the expander key.

In the Event of an Emergency

If something is loose or broken, call us during regular business hours; don't wait until your next appointment. Safely keep any broken pieces and bring them to your next appointment. If you're in discomfort to the point that you can't wait, then call us.

Dental Emergency FAQs

Should I visit the emergency room first for orthodontic emergencies?

Most orthodontic emergencies can be treated at home, so you probably don't need a trip to the ER. However, if you think your jaw is dislocated or fractured, if you have an injury that won't stop bleeding, if you have a fever or infection, or difficulty swallowing for any reason, then go to the ER without delay.

What can you eat with a loose bracket, and what should you avoid?

If your bracket is loose or being held together with orthodontic wax, you should avoid crunchy, hard, or sticky foods until we can permanently repair it for you. Stick to soft foods and chew on the opposite side of your mouth.

Can I repair my orthodontic appliance with super glue?

No. Absolutely not. Superglue is toxic, and you can poison yourself, aside from the fact that it can cause an allergic reaction or burn your throat, mouth, and gums. Using superglue may lead to improper alignment of your retainer and additional issues that your orthodontist will need to correct. It can alter the taste of your food and damage your bracket, so no, don't ever use superglue for anything that goes in your mouth.

Can I remove food from my braces using a toothpick?

We don't recommend using a toothpick in lieu of dental floss. If it were to splinter, it could become stuck in your oral tissue. A splinter could also damage your braces and teeth.

If I lose my aligners, is it an orthodontic emergency?

This isn't technically an emergency, but it should be addressed without delay. Your treatment can't progress if you aren't wearing the aligner trays, and if you go too long without wearing them, you might have to restart your treatment. If you can't find your aligners within an hour or more, call your emergency orthodontist in Austin!