Emergency Care

Orthodontic emergencies can be broadly categorized into two types: minor issues that can often be managed at home and serious problems that require immediate attention from an orthodontist. Being able to differentiate between the two is crucial for ensuring your treatment remains on track and for maintaining your oral health.

Minor Orthodontic Issues in La Jolla and Scripps Ranch

Minor orthodontic issues may cause discomfort but are not usually critical. These issues often do not require emergency treatment, and you can manage them at home until your next scheduled appointment. Common minor issues include:

Loose Brackets or Bands

What to do: If a bracket or band becomes loose, it can often remain in place, especially if it's not causing pain. You can use orthodontic wax to secure the loose bracket to the tooth temporarily. If the bracket is completely off, save it and contact our office for advice.

Wire Irritation

What to do: Wires can sometimes poke or irritate the inside of your mouth. If this happens, try using a pair of clean tweezers to reposition the wire. If you cannot adjust it, use orthodontic wax to cover the irritating end until your appointment with Dr. Lam.

Discomfort and Soreness

What to do: It’s common to experience discomfort after adjustments or when first wearing braces. Over-the-counter pain relief, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help manage this discomfort. Applying a warm saltwater rinse can also provide relief.

Serious Orthodontic Emergencies in La Jolla and Scripps Ranch

Serious orthodontic emergencies require immediate attention from Dr. Lam or a qualified orthodontist. These situations may involve more significant discomfort or risk to your dental health. Common serious emergencies include:

Broken or Fractured Braces

What to do: If your braces break, contact our office immediately. Do not attempt to fix the braces yourself, as this can cause more damage. Schedule an emergency appointment for proper repairs.

Severe Pain or Discomfort

What to do: If you experience severe pain that cannot be alleviated with over-the-counter medication, contact our office. This discomfort could indicate a problem that needs immediate attention.

Injury to the Mouth or Teeth

What to Do: If you experience trauma to the mouth or teeth while wearing braces (for example, a sports-related injury), seek emergency dental care right away. If a tooth has been knocked out, keep it moist and try to place it back in the socket or store it in milk until you can see a dentist.

Swelling or Infection

What to Do: If you notice swelling around your gums or teeth, this may indicate an infection. Contact our office immediately for an evaluation, as untreated infections can lead to more severe complications. Contact us to learn more.

Preventing Orthodontic Emergencies 

While not all emergencies can be avoided, there are several steps you can take to minimize the risk of experiencing an orthodontic issue during treatment:

Maintain Regular Appointments

Regular check-ups with Dr. Lam are essential to monitor your treatment progress and make necessary adjustments. These appointments can help identify potential issues before they escalate into emergencies.

Follow Care Instructions

Following the care instructions provided by Dr. Lam is critical. This includes guidelines on what foods to avoid, how to care for your braces, and tips for maintaining proper oral hygiene.

Use Mouthguards

If you participate in contact sports or activities that could potentially cause trauma to your mouth, consider wearing a mouthguard. Dr. Lam can provide custom mouthguards designed to protect your braces and teeth.

Be Cautious with Certain Foods

Avoiding hard, sticky, or chewy foods can significantly reduce the risk of damaging your braces. Foods like popcorn, hard candies, chewing gum, and raw vegetables can cause brackets to loosen or wires to break.

What to Do in an Orthodontic Emergency in La Jolla and Scripps Ranch

In the event of an orthodontic emergency, it's essential to know how to respond effectively. Here are the steps to follow:

Step 1: Remain Calm

While orthodontic emergencies can be alarming, staying calm is crucial. Take a deep breath and assess the situation to determine the best course of action.

Step 2: Evaluate the Situation

Identify the nature of the emergency. Is it a minor issue that you can manage at home, or is it something more serious that requires immediate attention?

Step 3: Take Immediate Action

For minor issues, follow the guidelines outlined above to manage the problem at home. For serious emergencies, contact our office right away to schedule an emergency appointment. Be prepared to describe your symptoms and the situation in detail to our team.

Step 4: Keep Records

If possible, take pictures of any visible issues, such as broken brackets or injuries. This documentation can be helpful for Dr. Lam during your visit.

Step 5: Follow-up Care

After addressing the emergency, follow any post-treatment care instructions provided by Dr. Lam. Ensure you attend any necessary follow-up appointments to monitor your progress and address any lingering issues.

Conclusion

Orthodontic emergencies can be stressful, but knowing how to handle them can make a significant difference in your treatment experience. At Seaside Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics, Dr. Natalie Lam and her team are committed to providing exceptional care and support to our patients, ensuring that you are well-prepared for any issues that may arise during your orthodontic journey.

If you ever find yourself facing an orthodontic emergency, contact our offices in La Jolla or San Diego. We are here to help you navigate the situation and get back on track toward achieving the smile you've always wanted. Together, we can ensure your orthodontic experience is as smooth and successful as possible. 

At Seaside Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics, we are committed to providing gentle, expert dental care. With two convenient locations at 875 Prospect St #202, La Jolla, CA 92037, and 10549 Scripps Poway Pkwy Suite E, San Diego, CA 92131, we make it easy to schedule an appointment that fits your family's busy lifestyle. Call us today at (858) 551-9700 for our La Jolla office or (858) 271-4200 for our San Diego location to book your next visit!