If you’re self-quarantining during COVID-19, then you’re doing all you can to stay healthy and prevent the spread of the virus. Many businesses are closed, including orthodontists, who’s services are seen has elective. So, what should you do if you have an orthodontic emergency during this period of social distancing? It’s always important to call your orthodontist first before doing anything—many times they will be able to help you work through the issue over the phone. However, here are some easy tips you can use for DIY orthodontic emergencies to stay healthy and safe.
Experiencing Discomfort
It’s completely normal to feel soreness or discomfort during orthodontic treatment, but this should only last for a few days. If you do experience some pain, rinse your mouth with salt water and take over the counter pain medication to get comfortable. But, if this sensation lasts longer than 48 hours, you should contact your orthodontist in Jacksonville right away for potential next steps.
Protruding Wire
It is common for a wire in your braces to work itself out of place, poking out and causing irritation in the mouth. In this case, you can use a Q-tip or clean tweezers to try to push the wire so it’s flat against the tooth. If the wire can’t be moved, you should cover it with orthodontic wax, an easy and comfortable solution to smooth out your smile. If changes in your wires occur during quarantine, be sure to contact your orthodontist.
Irritation in Your Mouth
Sometimes, orthodontics can be irritating in the mouth, especially while eating. However, a small amount of orthodontic wax can provide you with some relief in the form of a buffer between the metal and your mouth. This makes it harder to cut or match the inside of your cheeks and lips! Just pinch off a small piece of wax, roll it up into a ball the size of a pea, then flatten it on the area of irritation. If you don’t have any orthodontic wax, you can find it at most any drugstore—some even offer curbside pickup if you want to maintain social distancing as much as possible.
Lost O-Ring
An o-ring is a tiny rubber band or sometimes a thin wire that holds the orthodontic wire in the bracket. If your rubber o-ring comes off, you should be able to easily put it back with clean tweezers. If your wire o-ring becomes loose, it can cause irritation, which is why you can simply remove it. After, call your orthodontist to see what you should do next. Additionally, if this piece of wire is sticking out into your lip, you can bend it back to prevent irritation.
If you experience an orthodontic emergency, there’s no need to worry! Just remember these tips to stay safe during quarantine.
Meet the Orthodontist
At Ortega Orthodontics, Dr. William “Vaughn” Holland offers a wide range of orthodontic treatments. While his practice is closed during this time, he is ready to help his patients with orthodontic emergencies in any way possible. For any questions, he can be reached through his website or by phone at (904) 388-4600.