Straight and aligned teeth enhance your appearance and improve your oral health. Dental aligners are popular for those who want to achieve a straighter smile without the inconvenience of traditional braces. While aligners are generally safe and effective, unexpected emergencies requiring immediate attention can occur.
Anytime a dental aligner emergency arises, you must act quickly to avoid treatment setbacks. You can stay on track to get the desired results by being aware of your aligners, adhering to the recommended care recommendations, and contacting your orthodontist as soon as possible.
This article concerns the most common dental aligner emergencies and why addressing them is crucial. By being aware of these emergencies and knowing how to respond, you can maintain your progress and achieve your desired smile.
Common Dental Aligner Emergencies
Below are common dental aligner emergencies and why it’s essential to act quickly to prevent any setbacks to your treatment.
Cracked Aligners
One of the most common dental aligner emergencies is a cracked aligner. This can occur for various reasons, such as biting down too hard, accidentally dropping your aligners or excessive pressure. It would be best to take action immediately when you notice a crack or a fracture in your aligners. Leaving the crack unchecked can make the aligner ineffective or make your teeth move in the wrong direction.
To prevent this:
- Avoid eating sticky or hard foods.
- Don’t put them where they can be damaged.
- In the event of a crack, contact your dentist or orthodontist immediately to determine if a replacement is necessary.
Irritation or Sores
While it’s rare, wearing aligners for extended periods can cause irritation or sores in your mouth. This can be due to the edges of the aligners rubbing against your gums or cheeks. While this may be uncomfortable, it’s important to keep wearing your aligners to maintain progress and learn how to alleviate the discomfort.
First, try using orthodontic wax to smooth the edges of the irritating aligners. If that doesn’t work, consult your dentist about using a dental numbing gel to ease the pain. Whatever you do, don’t stop wearing your aligners, as this can set your progress back; visit a website like https://discoverydentalshelby.com/invisalign-provider/ for more details.
Lost Aligners
Losing your aligners is another typical emergency that can occur. It’s easy to misplace them, especially if you take them out often to eat or clean them. If you lose an aligner, contacting a dentist like Shelby family dentistry is crucial. You may need to purchase a replacement, wear older aligners, or advance to the next set.
Allergic Reactions
Although rare, some people may be allergic to the materials used to create dental aligners. Hives, swelling, itching, and allergic reactions are all possible symptoms. If you’re unsure if you’re allergic to any of the materials in your aligners, it’s always best to consult an expert; they offer emergency dental services. They can perform a patch test to see if you have any reactions before starting your treatment.
Loose Aligners
Over time, your aligners may become loose or not fit properly. This can happen if you lose or gain weight or your teeth shift more than expected. It’s essential to address this issue immediately to prevent any setbacks in your treatment.
If your aligners are loose, contact your dentist or orthodontist immediately. They may need to adjust your treatment plan to ensure your progress isn’t hindered.
