Orthodontic Emergencies in Henderson, Nevada

Common Orthodontic Problems We Treat

In addition to consulting on and installing all kinds of orthodontic work in Henderson, Absolute Dental offers emergency services when there are problems with appliances. While most appliances are durable, they are not indestructible, and we understand that occasionally, emergencies will crop up.

We can treat nearly any orthodontic emergency, but the most common include:

Broken Braces

Braces can break in many ways, including injuries from sports and from food. Wires can break, brackets can come unglued from the tooth, and more. When this happens, the wire may shift out of place, causing the braces to lose effectiveness. In severe cases, broken braces can cause pain or injury.

Poking Wires

When wires break, they can poke into the flesh of the mouth, lips, tongue, or gums and cause severe discomfort and even injury. If your wire has broken, make an appointment immediately. In the meantime, you can try gently pushing the wire into a better position or use a bit of orthodontic wax on the pointed end to reduce discomfort.

Broken Elastic Ties

In traditional metal braces, elastic ties hold the archwire to the brackets, which are cemented to the teeth. In some cases, these elastic ties may break or otherwise come off. When this happens, your braces may not work correctly. Schedule an appointment within a few days.

Damaged Aligners

In the case of removable clear aligners, cracks or damage is generally considered an emergency. When cracked or damaged, these aligners no longer work correctly and, in some cases, pose injury risk. Aligners can also be damaged by severe heat and warp out of shape. If this happens, schedule an appointment as soon as possible.

Retainers and Other Orthodontic Appliances

While often less of an emergency than fixed orthodontic devices, retainers can warp, break, or become loose over time. Wearing a damaged retainer may shift your teeth or otherwise lead to discomfort or pain. If your retainer has become damaged, stop wearing it and schedule an appointment ASAP.

These problems can all lead to discomfort and even soft tissue cuts. Our treatment team at Absolute Dental regularly helps people resolve these issues in a timely manner.

What To Do Before Your Visit

At Absolute Dental, we also understand that, in some cases, it is not possible to get to a dentist or orthodontist immediately. You may be on the road, in a remote area, or other challenges may mean you need to wait a few hours or days until you can appear in an office.

In this case, there are a few things you can do to alleviate any discomfort. In the case of sharp wires or brackets, use orthodontic wax to cover any protruding parts. If you don’t already have some, it can be found at most drug stores and pharmacies.

If your mouth is irritated or has been cut, you can rinse your mouth out up to five times a day with a warm saltwater solution you can make at home. Use a tablespoon of salt for each cup of water. Antiseptic mouthwash may also be used, but in the instances of cuts, it may cause temporary discomfort.

In cases of soreness, over-the-counter pain relief, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, may be taken as directed on the package. One thing you should not do is try to cut wires or undergo complex repairs at home. This can lead to further damage and discomfort.

When To Call Absolute Dental Right Away

In some cases, you should call Absolute Dental immediately instead of waiting.

These cases include:

• Severe pain
• Severe swelling
• Excessive bleeding
• Broken or knocked out teeth
• A swallowed or broken appliance part

You should also call us right away if a broken appliance is affecting eating or speaking. Even if you are unable to get to one of our offices immediately, our team at Absolute Dental in Henderson can guide you on the next steps over the phone.

When in doubt, it’s better to call and ask.

How Orthodontic Emergencies Affect Treatment

Aside from pain and health issues associated with orthodontic emergencies, delays can slow down progress and increase your overall treatment time. The sooner you get to us, the sooner your orthodontic treatment can get back on track. 

In severe cases, orthodontic emergencies and broken appliances can cause teeth to shift incorrectly, incurring more overall treatment time.

While damaged appliances may need adjustment or replacement, the good news is that prompt treatment can get you back on track quickly.

Prevention Tips for Braces and Appliances

While not all orthodontic emergencies can be prevented, there are some simple and common-sense precautions you and your family can do to minimize their prevalence.

The first is to always follow your orthodontist’s orders, especially when it comes to what foods you can and cannot eat. Avoid hard, sticky, and crunchy foods. Don’t chew on popcorn kernels or ice, and don’t use chewing gum.

If you take care of your appliances, they will take care of you. Always follow all care instructions, including routine brushing and flossing. Regular checkups, with both your dentist and orthodontist, will help keep things in good working order as well.

Keep in mind, visits to your orthodontist do not replace visits to your dentist, and you should visit your dentist every six months or as directed.

Finally, consider carrying orthodontic wax and a travel toothbrush with you in your backpack, purse, or car, so it’s available in case of an emergency.

Get Help for Orthodontic Emergencies in Henderson

While orthodontic issues and emergencies can be stressful, Absolute Dental is here to help. We offer same day appointments, friendly and experienced staff, state-of-the-art facilities and equipment, and convenient locations to serve you.

To schedule an appointment, feel free to give us a call or you may conveniently schedule an appointment online. We’re also happy to answer questions or offer guidance over the phone when we are able.

Whether you need same-day attention or a quick adjustment, acting early can prevent discomfort and keep your treatment on track. If something doesn’t feel right, don’t wait. Reach out to us, get answers, and take the next step toward a healthier, more confident smile.