What To Do in Case of an Orthodontic Emergency

There are very few true orthodontic emergencies. Occasionally, you may have a broken bracket, loose wire, or similar situation arise. If there is pain or discomfort associated with the situation, please contact our office as soon as possible so that we can schedule the patient at the next available appointment. If we are unable to be reached, you may make the patient comfortable by removing, or clipping the wire. Do not hesitate to remove any part of the braces that is causing discomfort.

Please understand that due to our concern for staying on schedule, we need adequate time to make the necessary corrective procedures. Please be advised that emergency repair work may need to be scheduled in the morning or early afternoon.

Many emergencies can wait until your next appointment or until the office reopens. In the meantime, here are some tips to relieve any discomfort.

Sore spot on cheek:

When you first get braces or an appliance, you may have sore spots develop. You can put wax on the bracket or wire that is rubbing your cheek until it heals. Your mouth will toughen up after a short while. If you do not have any wax from our office, any soft kitchen waxes will work (i.e. beeswax).

Soreness:

Try a pain reliever that you would use for a headache or similar discomfort. Soreness can be expected for 3-5 days after an adjustment. Warm saltwater rinses several times a day may help relieve your discomfort.

Loose bracket:

Please call us if you have a loose bracket so we can determine if you need to come right in.  It is not an orthodontic emergency if a bracket comes loose from the tooth or a spacer falls out.

Poking wire:

If you find you have a wire poking after hours, try placing some wax over it. Loose wires are very common as the teeth move. If the wax does not help please call us and we will clip the wire to make you comfortable until we can schedule a regular appointment and an adjustment.