Emergency Dental Care Solihull

Common Orthodontic Issues and How to Handle Them

While some issues may feel urgent, not all require immediate Solihull orthodontic treatment. Here are some of the most common problems, along with suggestions on managing them until you can see us for dental emergency care.

Loose or damaged brackets

One of the most common issues with braces, particularly metal braces in Solihull, involves brackets becoming loose or breaking off. Brackets can detach due to eating sticky, crunchy, or hard foods that put a strain on the appliance. If a bracket does come loose:

• Inspect the area – check to see if the bracket is still attached to the wire. If it is, try to avoid moving it around.
• Apply orthodontic wax – place orthodontic wax over the loose bracket to keep it from causing discomfort against your gums or inner cheek.
• Schedule an emergency appointment – call us as soon as possible to arrange a repair appointment. Avoid eating sticky or hard foods in the meantime to prevent further damage.

Poking wires

As your teeth begin to shift into alignment following your teeth straightening in Solihull, the wires on your braces may extend and potentially poke into the soft tissue of your mouth, especially your cheeks and gums. This can cause discomfort and irritation. The good news is there are simple steps to relieve it:

• Use orthodontic wax – place a small piece of wax on the tip of the wire to prevent it from poking into your cheek.
• Try gentle adjustments – if the wire is accessible, you can gently nudge it away from the irritated area. Be cautious not to move the wire too much, as this may affect the appliance’s alignment.
• Contact us – if discomfort persists, call Orthodontics For You, and we’ll book you in for dental care emergency.

Tooth and mouth soreness after adjustments

After an orthodontic treatment or adjustment, such as fitting ceramic braces in Solihull, it’s normal to feel some tenderness in your teeth and gums. This is often a sign that your treatment is progressing, as the braces are working to move your teeth into alignment. To relieve soreness:

• Take over-the-counter pain relief – anti-pain medicine such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage discomfort.
• Rinse with salt water – a mild saltwater rinse can help soothe any minor sores or irritation. This rinse can be used several times a day if needed.
• Eat soft foods – if chewing is uncomfortable, try sticking to softer foods for a few days until the soreness subsides.

Mouth sores or ulcers

Mouth sores are not uncommon when wearing braces, including lingual braces in Solihull, as brackets and wires can sometimes irritate your lips or the inside of your cheeks. These sores may feel painful, but typically heal on their own. To speed up the healing process:

• Apply orthodontic wax – cover any area of the braces causing irritation with wax to prevent further rubbing.
• Use a saltwater rinse – rinsing with warm salt water helps cleanse and soothe the sores, promoting healing.
• Over-the-counter gels – anti-inflammatory gels designed for mouth sores can also be used to numb the area and relieve pain.

Urgent Care: When to Seek Immediate Help

While many orthodontic issues can be managed at home, certain situations require immediate emergency care dental to avoid further complications. If you’re experiencing any of the following, please contact us without delay:

Trauma or injury

If you’ve had an accident that affects your mouth, gums, or teeth, it’s essential to seek immediate care. Trauma can lead to damaged teeth or brackets, both of which need to be assessed and treated as soon as possible.

Infection or swelling

Any swelling, unusual redness, or infection around your gums, mouth, or face can indicate a more serious issue. These symptoms shouldn’t be ignored, as infections can spread and cause further health concerns.

Severe pain

Mild discomfort is typical with orthodontic treatment such as Invisalign in Solihull, but if you’re experiencing severe or unmanageable pain, it’s time to seek help. Our team can assess the cause and make any necessary adjustments to alleviate your discomfort.

Why You Shouldn’t Attempt Self-Repair

Attempting to repair a broken orthodontic device on your own can lead to further complications. Orthodontic appliances, including NHS braces in Solihull, are designed with precision. Even a small shift can impact their effectiveness and the progress of your treatment. Trying to fix a loose bracket, adjust a wire, or reattach parts of your braces could make the issue worse.

Always contact us first at Orthodontics For You for expert guidance or to schedule an emergency appointment. Our team has the expertise to make repairs safely and ensure your treatment plan stays on track.