What Situations Are Considered Orthodontic Emergencies?

It goes without saying that, if you’re dealing with an orthodontic problem, you should schedule an appointment with the best orthodontist as soon as possible. Many children and adults across the country work with orthodontists, and, according to the American Association of Orthodontists, an estimated 50-75% of the American population could benefit from orthodontic treatment. That said, some situations qualify as an orthodontic emergency. Read on to learn what situations could be considered orthodontic emergencies.

True Orthodontic Emergencies

A true orthodontic emergency can be scary to deal with, but it is important to try and stay calm. However, the sooner you get the issue checked out, the better. Common examples of true orthodontic emergencies include major trauma that affects your mouth, gums, or teeth; infections; swelling of the gums or tongue; or severe and unmanageable pain. If you feel like your situation qualifies as a true orthodontic emergency, make sure to call ahead so that your orthodontist can advise you or prepare for your arrival to their office.

Minor Orthodontic Emergencies

The good news is that major orthodontic emergencies are quite rare. However, you still need to see your orthodontist when dealing with a minor emergency. Common examples of minor emergencies include broken or loose braces, general tooth pain, or a broken retainer. Many of these minor emergencies can still be painful or uncomfortable at best, so setting up an appointment as soon as possible is in your best interest. If you can’t schedule an appointment right away, you can always call to ask if there’s anything you can do on your own for damage control. For example, you may be able to place wax on loose brackets or use pliers to temporarily bend a loose wire into a more comfortable position. Your orthodontist should be able to advise you on which temporary home remedies to try, depending on your situation.

Finding the Right Orthodontist for Your Needs

There are many reasons why you might need to schedule a consultation with an orthodontist. Some of them constitute an emergency, while others are less pressing. Whether you need to get your teeth straightened or want to correct more serious issues like facial imbalance and teeth grinding, you’ll get the best results by finding a reputable and experienced orthodontic professional. If you don’t already have an orthodontist, a good place to start is asking your family and friends for recommendations. You can also get recommendations from your general dentist. Be sure to visit their website to find out more about the orthodontist, and check reviews to see what real patients’ experiences were like.

Knowing that you have a reputable and trusted orthodontist to rely on when faced with an emergency can make all the difference. If you think you may have an orthodontic problem that requires urgent attention, or if you’re interested in orthodontic treatment to align your smile, don’t hesitate to get in touch with the experts at Orthodontics LA, today.