OUR TEETH–AND BRACES–POTENTIALLY DEAL with a lot when we’re out and about. Basketball games, pie-eating contests, pizza crust... it’s a rough life. Usually our teeth are strong enough (or we’re lucky enough) to not suffer any major problems.
However, accidents happen. And fortune favors the prepared, so here are some tips for guarding yourself against dental and orthodontic emergencies.
You’re Less Likely To Suffer A Dental Emergency If You...
- Wear a mouth guard during sports
- Keep good, regular care of your teeth and gums
- Keep your regularly scheduled appointments to check on teeth and orthodontic work
- Stay away from the hard, crunchy, and sticky foods we warned you about when you started orthodontic treatment
Just In Case, Here Are Five Items To Have On Hand
Keep these items in a little dental emergency kit that you can keep on hand—at home, in you car, and while you travel.
Painkiller: An all-natural topical painkiller that many people find useful is clove oil. Remember, NEVER put aspirin right ON the tooth.
Orthodontic wax: If something is out of whack, you can just cover it with wax until we can take a look.
Floss: This is handy if something uncomfortable gets wedged between teeth, or wires.
Gauze: In case of a knocked-out or loose tooth, you can put the tooth back in place, and bite on some gauze to keep it there until you get professional care.
Fingernail clipper: A fingernail clipper can be used to clip a poking wire.
Pencil with eraser: The eraser of a pencil can be used to slide a wire back into place or push a poking wire.
Tweezers: Tweezers can be used to grab the end of a wire and place it back into an orthodontic bracket.
Our contact info: Be ready to contact us. If you’re on vacation, we can give you professional advice and maybe refer you to someone nearby.
Are You Going On A Vacation This Summer?
Remember the tips above. If it’s time for your check-up, visit us before your trip. Contact us at Gorczyca Orthodontics in Antioch, California 925-757-9000. Don't let dental or orthodontic issues interfere with your family vacation. Be prepared!
Let us know where you’re going on vacation below! We’d also LOVE to see your photos. You can share them on our Facebook page.
