Emergency Orthodontist Care

Orthodontic emergencies are rare, but they can happen. Whether it’s a broken bracket, a poking wire, or an injury to the mouth, knowing what to do can help prevent discomfort and keep your treatment on track.

Orthodontic emergencies typically fall into two categories:

Emergencies Related to Orthodontic Appliances
Direct Injuries to the Mouth and Teeth

Here’s what you need to know about handling both situations.

Orthodontic Appliance Emergencies

Braces and orthodontic appliances are designed to be strong, but sometimes they can break, loosen, or cause irritation. If you experience any of the following, please call our office during patient hours to schedule a repair appointment.

Common Issues & Temporary Solutions

If a bracket or band becomes loose but is still attached to the wire, leave it in place until your appointment.
If it comes off completely, save it and bring it to your appointment.
Call our office to schedule a repair.

Try to gently push the wire back into place using a pencil eraser or Q-tip.
If the wire is still poking, cover it with orthodontic wax to reduce irritation.
If absolutely necessary, you may trim the wire with sterilized nail clippers, but call us for an appointment.

If a small tie wire is irritating your cheek, cover it with wax or use a Q-tip to tuck it under the archwire.

No Walk-Ins for Emergencies, For the convenience of all scheduled patients, we are unable to accommodate walk-in emergency repairs. Please call ahead so we can schedule a time to assist you.

Direct Injuries to the Mouth and Teeth

If you sustain a blow to the mouth or teeth, follow these steps immediately:

Apply ice to the injured area to reduce swelling.
Contact your general dentist as soon as possible for an evaluation.
Get an X-ray to assess damage if a tooth is displaced, knocked out, or fractured.

Should I Call My Orthodontist or Dentist?

Call your general dentist first if the injury involves your teeth. They have the necessary tools and anesthesia for urgent dental care.
Call our office if your braces or appliances become dislodged or displaced due to the injury. We will adjust or replace them once your dentist has addressed any dental trauma.

After-Hours Orthodontic Emergencies

If you experience severe pain outside of office hours, please contact our office. Our after-hours voicemail will provide instructions on who to reach for further assistance.

If you ever have an orthodontic emergency or need guidance on what to do, don’t hesitate to call us! We are committed to ensuring your comfort and keeping your treatment on track.