Emergency Care
Orthodontic emergencies are uncommon, but they can happen from time to time during treatment. Most issues are minor and can be managed at home until our office can see you. Understanding what to do helps keep you comfortable and your treatment on track.
In general, orthodontic emergencies fall into two categories: issues related to appliances and direct injuries to the mouth or teeth.
What Should I Do If an Orthodontic Appliance Breaks or Feels Uncomfortable?
Sometimes, appliances might be broken or bent during your orthodontic care. If there are any disturbances, such as loose bands, loose brackets, broken or poking wires, please call our office for an appointment during patient hours. For your convenience and the convenience of scheduled patients, it is not possible to handle emergencies on a walk in basis. In the meantime, here are some helpful hints to remedy some of the problems you may encounter until our office can see you.
- If a tie wire is irritating your mouth, cover it with bees wax or tuck it under the arch wire with a blunt object like a pencil eraser or Q-tip.
- A loose band or bracket can generally be left in place until seen in our office. Call [practicename][/practicename], during patient hours, when you notice a loose band or bracket. We will schedule you to reattach the loose appliance, if indicated.
- A broken or poking archwire can often be bent in with a pencil eraser or cut with nail clippers. Call our office during patient hours if you do not believe the problem has been resolved.
Watch the video below that explains how to handle an orthodontic emergency.
What Should I Do If There Is an Injury to the Mouth or Teeth?
If you experience a direct injury to your mouth or teeth, whether or not you are currently wearing braces, apply ice to the affected area immediately to help reduce swelling.
Contact your family dentist as soon as possible, as X-rays are often needed to assess the extent of the injury. If a tooth has been knocked out, fractured, or displaced, your general dentist is typically best equipped to handle the initial treatment.
Once your dentist has addressed the injury, our team will work with you to repair or adjust any orthodontic appliances that may have been affected, based on your comfort and healing needs.
What If an Emergency Happens After Office Hours?
If you experience significant pain or an urgent orthodontic concern after office hours, please contact our office. You will receive instructions on who to reach for further assistance and guidance on next steps.
Our goal is to keep you safe, comfortable, and supported throughout your orthodontic treatment. If you are ever unsure whether something requires attention, we encourage you to call us.
Frequently Asked Questions
Orthodontic emergencies can feel stressful, especially when you’re not sure what’s considered urgent. These common questions help clarify when to call our office and how to manage minor issues safely at home.
What Is Considered an Orthodontic Emergency?
Most orthodontic emergencies involve discomfort from loose brackets, poking wires, or broken appliances. Severe pain, swelling, or trauma to the teeth or mouth should be evaluated promptly by a dental professional.
Should I Call Right Away If a Bracket Comes Loose?
If a bracket or band becomes loose but is not causing pain, it can usually wait until your next appointment. Please call our office during regular hours so we can determine if a repair visit is needed.
Can I Fix a Poking Wire at Home?
Yes, in many cases. A poking wire can often be gently pushed back using a clean pencil eraser or cotton swab. Orthodontic wax can help protect irritated areas until we can see you.
Who Should I Call First After a Dental Injury?
If a tooth is knocked out, fractured, or displaced, contact your family dentist first. They are best equipped to manage dental trauma. Once the injury is treated, we will help adjust or repair any orthodontic appliances.
What Should I Do If I Have Pain After Office Hours?
If you are experiencing significant pain after hours, contact our office. You will receive instructions on who to reach for further guidance and support.