Orthodontic Issue at Home? Here’s How to Handle It

If you have braces or other orthodontics during COVID-19, you may be wondering about what you should do if a problem occurs. Normally, you could go visit your orthodontist in Newark for a quick fix. However, given the current situation, staying at home may be your best move. If an orthodontic problem does occur, always call your dentist first because the issue can usually be remedied over the phone. In the meantime, you can use these easy yet helpful tips if you’re having an issue with your smile.

Having Discomfort?

Discomfort during orthodontic treatment is completely normal, but if it lasts for more than a few days, contact your orthodontist. You can rinse your mouth with saltwater and take over the counter pain medication to manage your discomfort. Additionally, watch out for foods that are hard to chew because they could cause pain.

Did You Lose an O-Ring?

O-rings are tiny rubber or metal bands that hold the wire for braces in place in your bracket. In some cases, these can fall off or become loose. For rubber bands, simply use clean tweezers to place it back on your smile. However, metal o-rings may be harder to deal with. In some cases, you may be able to bend it back into place if it’s loose, but if it’s come off of your smile, call your orthodontist for the proper next steps.

Ouch! Protruding Wires

One of the most common problems that can occur is protruding wires, which can catch and cut the inside of your mouth. Sometimes, the end of a wire will work itself out of place and stick out. If this occurs, you can use a Q-tip or clean tweezers to bend the wire flat and avoid discomfort. If the wire can’t be moved, try putting some dental wax on the end to make it smooth. This will provide you with comfort by avoiding the jagged edge of the wire.

Irritation in Your Mouth

Because of their design, braces can be irritating in the mouth, especially when chewing. If your braces are causing you irritation, try using orthodontic wax to create a buffer between the metal brackets and your mouth. This wax is easy to apply—you simply grab a piece, roll it into a pea-sized ball, and then flatten it onto the affected areas. If you don’t have any wax from your orthodontist, you can usually find it at any local drugstore.

If a problem with your orthodontics occurs, there is no need to panic! Just remember these easy yet useful DIY tips to keep your smile comfortable during this uncertain time.

About the Practice

At Wigal Orthodontics, Dr. Timothy G. Wigal and Dr. Jason Lawrence work together to ensure that their patients get the results they desire no matter the misalignment they have experienced. During the spread of COVID-19, they still want to help the Mt. Vernon community in any way possible, which is why they have provided these orthodontic emergency tips. For any questions, Dr. Wigal and Dr. Lawrence can be reached through their website or by phone at (740) 397-2111.