Adult Orthodontics in Morganton and Lenoir, NC
At Gragg Orthodontics, we understand that orthodontic emergencies can happen at any time and often require immediate attention to keep you comfortable and your treatment on track. Our team is here to provide prompt, effective care when you need it most.
Contact us today if you’re experiencing an orthodontic emergency, and we’ll help you take the first step toward relief.
What is an Orthodontic Emergency?
Orthodontic emergencies can occur unexpectedly, causing discomfort or interfering with your braces or aligners. While not all issues require an immediate visit, some situations need professional attention to prevent further complications.
If you’re unsure whether your problem qualifies as an emergency, give us a call, and our friendly team will guide you.
Examples of orthodontic emergencies include:
Severe Discomfort: Persistent pain that doesn’t improve with minor adjustments.
Broken or Loose Brackets: Brackets that detach from your teeth can affect the progress of your treatment.
Poking Wires: Sharp wires can irritate your cheeks or gums and cause discomfort.
Lost or Broken Aligners: Missing or broken aligners can interrupt your treatment schedule.
Our priority is to resolve your issue promptly so you can get back to feeling your best!
Common Orthodontic Emergencies and How We Can Help
At Gragg Orthodontics, we’re experienced in handling a wide range of orthodontic emergencies. Here are some common problems our patients encounter and how we address them:
Broken Brackets: We’ll reattach or replace the damaged bracket to ensure your treatment stays on track.
Wires That Irritate or Poke: Our team can trim or reposition wires to stop irritation and improve your comfort.
Loose Appliances: If your expander or other appliance becomes loose, we can adjust or repair it.
Missing Aligners: We’ll guide you on the next steps, whether it’s creating replacement aligners or adjusting your treatment plan.
Our goal is to make your emergency appointment as quick and stress-free as possible.
How to Handle Orthodontic Emergencies at Home
While it’s always best to consult with us for any issues, some minor emergencies can be managed at home until your appointment.
Poking Wires: Use orthodontic wax (available at your local pharmacy) to cover the sharp end of your wire until we can adjust it.
Loose Brackets: If a bracket is loose but still attached to the wire, avoid touching or moving it and contact us right away.
Irritated Cheeks or Gums: Warm salt water rinses can help soothe irritation. You can also place wax over brackets or wires that are causing discomfort.
Lost Aligners: Wear the previous set of aligners if possible and contact us so we can create a replacement.
If you’re feeling unsure or uncomfortable, don’t hesitate to reach out for advice. We’re here to support you every step of the way!
Frequently Asked Questions About Emergency Orthodontics
Q1. What should I do if my bracket breaks?
If a bracket breaks but remains attached to the wire, leave it in place and avoid touching it. Contact us, and we’ll schedule a repair as soon as possible.
Q2. Is it normal for my teeth to feel sore after my braces are adjusted?
Yes, mild soreness is common after adjustments and is not typically an emergency. Over-the-counter pain relievers and cold compresses can help. If the soreness is severe or lasts longer than a few days, call us for an evaluation.
Q3. Can I cut a poking wire myself?
We recommend using orthodontic wax to cover sharp wires until you can see us. If a wire is causing extreme discomfort and you cannot visit right away, sterilize a small pair of nail clippers and carefully trim the wire.
Q4. What do I do if an aligner breaks or goes missing?
If your aligner is damaged or lost, wear the previous set or the next aligner in your sequence until we can create a replacement. Call our office for further guidance.
Q5. How do I know if my issue is an emergency?
Severe pain, broken appliances, or issues interfering with eating or speaking often require immediate attention. If you’re unsure, contact us—we’ll help you determine the best course of action.
Don’t wait to address your orthodontic emergency. Contact Gragg Orthodontics today, and we’ll help restore your comfort and resolve the issue so you can stay on track with your treatment plan!
