Orthodontic emergencies

It’s Holiday party time!  Parents, you are now officially entering the “School Break Zone.” This time of year, of course, brings family gatherings, parties, and treats! It’s hard to turn away from the ooey-gooey treats which is why Dr. Holt wants you to be prepared if an orthodontic emergency happens in your house.

Most importantly, he would like you to understand that accidents can happen during orthodontic treatment. When they do happen, it can result in a call or unplanned visit to your orthodontist – this is what you would consider an “emergency visit.”

Most times, “it’s not a big deal,” but Dr. Holt would like to remind you to make the call–don’t wait. He is your partner in creating a HEALTHY smile. If there is an urgent need during this time–for example if you are in pain, or an injury has occurred–your orthodontist should be notified and you should call for an emergency appointment.

In the meantime, stock up with supplies to help discomfort. Essential items to keep in your medicine cabinet are:

• Orthodontic wax
• Dental floss
• Tweezers
• Interproximal brushes
• Topical anesthetic (such as Orabase or Ora-Gel)
• Over the counter pain relievers (such as one taken for a headache)

Plus, a warm salt water rinse can be soothing, as well. The recommended mixture is 1 tsp. salt to 8 oz. warm water.

Ultimately, an important part of successful orthodontic treatment is communicating with your orthodontist. If an emergency arises, it’s okay. Don’t panic. We have a phone number you can text.  We will take good care of you.  Given the situation we will work hard to get you back on your treatment plan. Don’t forget, you play an essential role in your treatment. All you have to do is follow your orthodontist’s directions. With holiday fun on the horizon, now is the time to have a plan in place in case you eat too many ooey-gooey treats.  Enjoy the Holidays!

You know I love sweets—take a look around my pantry and you would see a who’s who of the candy world! :)  But it is all about moderation, especially with braces in place.

Worried your braces might ruin your Halloween fun? Spooky thought – but never fear! Enjoying good candy with braces is still an option. But first, avoid damaging your braces and risking your successful orthodontic treatment by learning which candy might loosen the brackets attached to your teeth.

Candies to avoid with braces

These candies may damage orthodontic appliances and can really set your orthodontic treatment back. Steer clear of:

• Caramels
• Taffy
• Hard candy
• Chewy candy
• Jellybeans
• Licorice
• Bubble gum
• Suckers
• Sour candy
• Popcorn
• Nuts

Candies you can eat with braces

Softer, melt-in-your-mouth candies tend to be less risky when it comes to keeping your braces intact. Enjoy these treats in moderation:

• Chocolate (without caramel or nuts)
• Peanut butter cups
• KitKats
• 3 Musketeers
• Marshmallows
• Cookies

Be mindful, that in excess, candy of any kind can accumulate around your braces and lead to permanent white marks (decalcification), cavities or gum disease (gingivitis). Make sure to brush thoroughly around your braces especially after indulging in sugary snacks!

No need to miss out on the trick-or-treating fun but enjoy candy in moderation and snack wisely! If you do find a bracket not attached to the tooth, call me (Dr Holt)  as soon as possible to make an appointment to repair the loose bracket so your treatment is not delayed.  Now get out there and have a spooktacular Halloween! :)