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Emergency Orthodontist — Grafton, MA

How to Handle and Prevent Braces-Related Injuries

Has one of your brackets become loose? Did your retainers shatter on the floor? Don’t panic! Orthodontic emergencies like these can be anxiety-inducing, but they are nothing our orthodontist can’t handle. In fact, there are even a few steps you can take at home to restore your pain-free smile. Keep reading to learn what they are, or contact our office to speak with our team directly.

Orthodontist examining mouth of girl with braces

How We Treat Orthodontic Emergencies

Woman experiencing tooth pain at home

The Most Common Orthodontic Emergencies

When an orthodontic emergency strikes, thousands of questions run through your mind. Perhaps the loudest one is what exactly you are supposed to do next. That’s why we are covering how to handle some of the most common ones below!

Understanding the Cost of Orthodontic Emergencies

Grafton orthodontist holding model of teeth with braces

Orthodontic emergencies can encompass a wide range of cases, from a broken bracket to a soft tissue injury. As a result, the treatment (and the price) vary. That’s why scheduling an appointment is crucial! Once we have a better understanding of what is needed to restore your smile, we will provide you with an estimate of the cost and review your financial options, like dental insurance and flexible financing.

Keys to Preventing Orthodontic Emergencies

Woman using special brush to clean braces

When it comes to orthodontic emergencies, prevention is paramount. After all, last-minute visits to our orthodontist’s office in Grafton can be quite stressful, and you want to protect your teeth in order to stay on track with your treatment plan. Fortunately, you can reduce your chances of a loose bracket, poking wire, and the like with the following best practices:

Visit Your Dentist Regularly

Orthodontist and patient with braces smiling in mirror

Your biannual visits serve two important purposes: catching dental problems before they become dental emergencies and preventing other issues, like tooth decay, from developing altogether. Plus, they allow your dentist to give you specific feedback on how to improve your brushing and flossing regimen. So, if it’s been more than six months since your last checkup and cleaning, don’t wait – schedule your appointment today.

Maintain Good Oral Hygiene At Home

Girl with braces smiling while holding toothbrush

Another key to preventing orthodontic emergencies is implementing a solid at-home oral hygiene routine. That starts with brushing for two minutes each morning and evening with a soft-bristled toothbrush and toothpaste with fluoride. To thoroughly clean between your teeth and along your gumline, you should also rinse with mouthwash and floss daily. Bonus tip: try using an oral irrigator to make the flossing process quicker!

Stick to a Nutritious Diet

Display of vitamin-rich fruits, vegetables, and nuts

Popcorn, peanut brittle, and caramel apples are a few foods that are filled with sugar and crunchy enough to break a bracket or wire. So, do your best to opt for soft, nutrient-dense foods instead. Examples include oatmeal, smoothies, yogurt, bananas, cooked vegetables, and pasta.

Wear a Mouthguard

Closeup of mouthguard hanging from football helmet

If you participate in sports, you need a mouthguard from your orthodontist. This custom-made appliance will fit securely over your teeth and your braces, preventing both from rogue baseballs, accidental elbows, and other forceful hits to your mouth.

Use Tools to Open Packages, Not Your Teeth

Man using scissors to open packages

Simply put, don’t use your teeth to open packages, bags, and bottle caps. This can break your teeth and your braces. Instead, take the time to locate the scissors or bottle cap opener. It may seem inconvenient at the time, but it will save you from a stressful emergency visit to your orthodontist’s office!

Orthodontic emergencies can be nerve-wracking, but handling one will be much less anxiety-inducing with the above information in mind. If you have additional questions on your mind or would like to schedule an appointment, don’t hesitate to contact our office!

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