Orthodontic Emergencies: We’re Here for You

When to Seek Urgent Care

There are only a few situations that count as a major orthodontic (or dental) emergency. If you experience any of these, please seek help as soon as possible, starting with your regular dentist or an emergency room if necessary:

• Trauma or injury to the teeth, face, or mouth
• Infection or swelling of the gums, mouth, or face
• Severe, unmanageable discomfort or pain in these areas

Your dentist is typically the best person to handle immediate problems like a fractured tooth or a painful infection. Once those urgent issues are addressed, we're here for you to adjust your orthodontic plan as needed!

Minor Troubles and Quick Fixes

Fortunately, the vast majority of orthodontic problems are minor compared to these situations but they can still be uncomfortable! It’s always best to try one of these simple fixes first, and then call our office to schedule a quick, non-urgent repair appointment.

Poking Wires or Brackets

As your teeth move, the archwire might start poking near the back of your mouth, or a bracket might cause irritation.

• Temporary Relief: Use a pencil eraser or a Q-Tip to try and gently tuck the offending wire into a better position. If it won't move, you can cover the metal part that's causing irritation with a small piece of orthodontic wax (which we can provide!).
• Need to Snip? Call us first for guidance! If a wire is very long and poking, sometimes an adult can use a nail clipper sterilized in alcohol to carefully clip the end off.

Loose or Broken Parts

This often happens if you accidentally chew something hard or sticky!

• What to Do: If the band or bracket is still attached to the wire, leave it as is and cover it with wax if it's irritating your mouth—just don't connect any elastics to it. If a piece has completely come off, save it.
• Next Step: Call our office to let us know what happened. We’ll schedule a quick visit to get you back on your journey! Always bring any loose parts with you.

General Soreness or Loosening

It's completely normal for teeth to feel slightly loose or tender after braces are first placed or adjusted. That's how we know they're moving!

• For Minor Soreness: Use your regular over-the-counter pain reliever.
• Try a Rinse: A twice-a-day warm salt-water rinse can help soothe tenderness. Mix one teaspoon of salt in an 8-ounce glass of warm water, and rinse for 30 seconds.
• Comfort: A warm washcloth or heating pad placed on the outside of your jaw can also offer some relief.

Our goal is always to make your orthodontic treatment as comfortable as possible. If you need additional advice or just want to check in, please don't hesitate to call us!