Although orthodontic emergencies are rare, they can happen. That’s why it’s so important to do what you can to protect your teeth, your gums, and your braces from harm! If you’re not quite sure where to start, then read on – you’ll find five helpful tips for preventing broken brackets, protruding wires, and other common orthodontic emergencies below.
Tip #1: Avoid Crunchy Foods
The brackets and wires used to move your teeth and bite into their properly aligned positions are durable, not indestructible. That’s why it’s so important to be selective about what you eat. Instead of reaching for tortilla chips, raw almonds, crackers, and other crunchy foods, opt for softer ones that are packed with nutrients, like cooked carrots, oatmeal, and plain yogurt.
Tip #2: Wear a Mouthguard During Sports
There’s a common misconception that you only need to wear a mouthguard during contact sports, like wrestling. However, unforeseen impact can happen during all forms of exercise – from skateboarding and rollerblading to running. For that reason, you should always wear a mouthguard; it’s a small device that makes a big difference.
Tip #3: Commit to Good Dental Care
Remember, tooth decay, gum disease, and other forms of dental damage will bring your orthodontic treatment to an immediate stop. So, if you want to avoid frustrating delays, you need to commit to good dental care habits at home! That starts with flossing at least once a day and extends to brushing your teeth and rinsing with mouthwash consistently.
Tip #4: Break Bad Habits
Smoking is often the first thing that comes to mind when patients think of bad habits that can wreak havoc on their smiles. The truth is that even habits that seem harmless, like biting your nails or chewing on ice cubes, increase your risk of dental and orthodontic emergencies. So, it’s important that you put a plan in place to quit, especially if you want to avoid any obstacles during your time with braces.
Tip #5: Prioritize Your Check-In Visits
At your progress visits, your orthodontist will monitor the movement of your teeth to make sure you’re on-track with your treatment plan. They will also examine the condition of your brackets and wires. If they notice something is wrong, like one of your brackets is slightly loose, they can fix it then and there, reducing your chances of experiencing an orthodontic emergency in the process.
About the Practice
Our team at Hanson Orthodontics is here to help you throughout every step of the treatment process – from scheduling your first appointment to making a custom retainer to preserve your results. So, if you experience an orthodontic emergency, like a protruding wire, reach out to us via our website or by phone at (972) 727-1153 so we can help! We are open five days a week, and our dedicated team does their very best to see patients in pain the same day they call.