What are Orthodontic Emergencies in OKC?

Do you think you have an orthodontic emergency in OKC? Part of a great orthodontic experience is having regular, scheduled meetings with your orthodontist. The next time you are seen, you always know the orthodontist can easily track your steady progress.

But, sometimes, some situations need immediate attention, not a scheduled meeting. These situations are orthodontic emergencies or times when you need to see an orthodontist as soon as possible.

Here at Orthodontic Arts, we’ve identified what constitutes an orthodontic emergency, what some common orthodontic emergencies in OKC are, and what to do should an orthodontic emergency arise.

What is considered an orthodontic emergency?

A broken retainer isn’t a true orthodontic emergency. You will be okay if you go a few days without one.

Orthodontic problems are serious, but if you are experiencing severe pain or blood loss, call 911 or go to an emergency room instead of the orthodontist.

A true orthodontic emergency in OKC is something that needs immediate attention from an orthodontist, not an EMT.

What are some common orthodontic emergencies in OKC?

Losing a tooth

Losing a tooth or having a tooth knocked out of place is a typical emergency. Visiting an orthodontist as soon as possible is the only chance of saving the tooth.

In the meantime, putting your tooth in a glass of milk is an excellent way to preserve it, as crazy as it sounds.

Broken bracket or band

Braces are a delicate process that takes time and careful attention. While they are made of metal, they aren’t impervious to being broken or damaged.

When braces break, they can seriously derail your teeth’s alignment progress. Call your orthodontist immediately to schedule a visit, preferably the very next day.

If this break occurs early in your braces process, it is a less severe issue. You’ve made little progress and aren’t likely to lose much. However, if you are a few weeks or a couple of months away from being done with braces when they break, you must act fast. A break toward the end of your treatment plans may add months to it.

Swelling

Swelling may not constitute a dental emergency, but it’s a good indicator that something is wrong.

If you experience swelling of the gums could mean you have gingivitis, a form of gum disease. Symptoms of gingivitis typically include swelling, redness, and bleeding.

It’s essential to act fast if you have gingivitis. If left untreated, gingivitis can lead to tooth loss.
Sudden Pain

Pain is relatively common in orthodontics. Braces can be uncomfortable when you first get them. It can hurt to pull a tooth out.

But sudden pain that comes out of nowhere is concerning. For example, if pain wakes you up in the middle of the night or if it comes to you all of a sudden, you may be experiencing an orthodontic emergency.

It’s normal to feel a low, dull pain with braces. But sharp pain shouldn’t happen.

What should I do in an orthodontic emergency in OKC?

Ideally, be sure to get in touch with your orthodontist immediately if an orthodontic emergency occurs. However, if they aren’t available for a visit, then call. If the emergency occurs outside of business hours and they are unavailable, here are some ways you can resolve the emergency at home until you can reach them.

Loose or Broken Bracket

Cover a loose bracket with wax to protect the inside of your mouth. If necessary, remove it altogether.

Exposed Wire

An exposed wire can poke into your cheek and cause severe pain. First, cover the end of the wire with the orthodontic wax your orthodontist provides. If that’s unavailable, take a pencil eraser and ensure it’s attached to the wire in question.

If all else fails, you can clip the end of the wire with a nail clipper.

Who can handle an orthodontic emergency in OKC?

Call Orthodontic Arts if you are experiencing an orthodontic emergency in OKC. Use the number 405-604-3747, even after hours, and our on-call clinician will help you as soon as possible.

In Conclusion

Some common orthodontic emergencies.

• Losing a Tooth
• Broken Bracket or Band
• Swelling
• Sudden Pain

Orthodontic Arts, your number one Orthodontist in OKC. Our Certified Orthodontist provides the latest and greatest Orthodontic practices to our clients in the OKC and Midtown area. Orthodontic Arts is the best place for child and teen orthodontics as well as adult orthodontics. Be sure to ask about Invisalign and invisible braces! Contact us today at (405) 604-3745 or request an appointment.