What to Do in a Braces-Related Accident

Let’s be honest, children and accidents go hand in hand. Rough-housing, climbing trees, running around—all of these can result in a sudden fall, scraped knee, or bleeding gums, especially if they’re undergoing a braces treatment.

In a braces-related accident, quick action by parents and a visit to the emergency dentist in Goose Creek can prevent further injury and protect the child’s orthodontic progress.

What to Do When Braces Are Damaged or Cause Injury

1. Stay Calm and Reassure Your Child

Panicking will make the situation worse. Speak calmly and comfort your child. If there’s bleeding, swelling, or pain, assure your child that you’ll take care of it.

2. Assess the Severity of the Injury

Once you and your child have calmed down, it’s time to assess the damage. Carefully check for loose brackets or wires, any wires poking into the cheek, gum, or tongue, swollen or bleeding gums, and broken teeth.

Depending on the accident’s severity, you should call your dentist immediately or go to the ER.

3. Use Orthodontic Wax or Gauze

If a wire pokes into soft tissue, you can use orthodontic wax to stop the irritation. First, dry the area, then place a small roll of wax over the wire.

If wax is unavailable, a piece of clean gauze or sugarless gum can be used as a temporary fix.

4. Manage Pain or Swelling

If your child is in severe pain, you can use over-the-counter pain relievers (ibuprofen or acetaminophen) to help manage it. Always ask your primary healthcare provider which pain medicine is safe for children.

You can also apply a cold compress to reduce swelling.

5. Do Not Attempt DIY Fixes

Avoid pulling or bending brackets or bands back into place. Never cut wires at home, as this can lead to swallowing or inhaling the metal.

Find an Emergency Dentist in Goose Creek, for Braces-Related Accidents

After doing what you can at home to reduce anxiety and discomfort, the next step is to call the dentist. We will assess the extent of the damage and ask you to come in if there’s a need for an emergency adjustment.

Quick action when an accident happens is key, but understanding how to prevent them can save you time and stress. If your child plays a sport, a custom mouthguard can protect their teeth if they fall or suffer a hit to the face.

Ready to learn more or have additional questions? Contact North Rivers Dental for help!