Do you know that there is a time during the year when orthodontic emergencies crop up more frequently than others? Now is that time. Fall sees many people go outdoors, fill up parks and stadiums, and play a wide variety of sports. It may be that the NFL season inspires them, or it could be that they want to squeeze in as much play as they can before snow blankets the fields and parks. Whatever the reason, the heightened activity also results in an increase of orthodontic emergencies.

What to Do in Case of Common Orthodontic Emergencies

When you are out running around and engaging in a lot of body-contact sports, the chances of orthodontic emergencies increase. This is not to imply that you should sit around at home… get outdoors, but also keep the following orthodontic emergencies tips in mind:

• How to Fix a Loose Wire

A wire or a band may come loose if you sustain a fall. Push the protruding wire gently backwards with the back of a spoon, a cotton swab, a pair of tweezers, or the eraser end of a pencil to get it out of the way. You may need to cut a wire that is jutting out if you cannot push it back under the archwire. Use clean fingernail clippers or a pair of scissors to cut the wire. If any piece of wire continues to bother you, place a piece of wax over the wire.

• What to Do If You Have a Loose Bracket or Band

If pushing the wire does not keep the bracket or the band in place, or the wire comes out or falls off entirely, put a piece of wax on it.

A piece of wax comes in handy in any kind of orthodontic emergency involving a loose appliance. The wax will keep the appliance in place until you reach your orthodontist’s office while also preventing it from poking you.

• What to Do If You Have Lost a Separator

Don’t lose sleep over lost separators. Plenty of patients lose a separator while undergoing dental treatments. However, you should check with an orthodontist to know if it has to be replaced.

• What to Do If Your Headgear Has Slipped Out of Place

If the headgear attached to your braces has slipped out of position you may be able to put it back in place, but it is always a good idea to get it checked by the orthodontist afterwards.

• What to Do If a Sharp Aligner is Poking You or Your New Braces are Making You Sore

Orthodontic emergencies may crop up even when you are indoors. A new aligner can feel rough or your new braces can poke you or make you sore. Use an emery board to smooth the sharp edges of the aligner. Place a piece of wax over your braces to lessen the abrasion on your lips, cheeks, and tongue. If the soreness persists, rinse your mouth with warm saline water.

You can manage several orthodontic emergencies yourself, but it is always wise to check with your orthodontist afterwards. Some quick-fix solutions may only work temporarily before the original issue sprouts again. Keep your orthodontist’s number handy, but also be careful. Enjoy your time outdoors without worrying about orthodontic emergencies.