Orthodontic Emergency Guide
While true orthodontic emergencies are rare, we want you to be prepared. This guide will help you handle common issues at home and know when it’s time to give us a call. Remember, if you ever have severe pain or an urgent problem you can’t solve, please contact our office right away.
Common Issues You Can Handle at Home
You might be surprised to learn that many common problems can be managed temporarily until you can schedule an appointment with us.
General Soreness
After getting your braces on or after an adjustment, it’s normal to feel some soreness for a few days.
What to do: Stick to soft foods. Rinsing your mouth with a warm salt-water solution (one teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water) can also provide relief. For more significant discomfort, Tylenol® is a good option.
Irritation of Lips and Cheeks
It takes a week or two for your mouth to “toughen up” and get used to your new braces.
What to do: Use the orthodontic wax we provide to cover any part of your braces that is causing irritation.
Poking Wire
As teeth move, the archwire can sometimes poke out of the back bracket.
What to do: Gently use a pencil eraser or a cotton swab to push the poking wire down or flat against the tooth. If that doesn’t work, cover the end with wax and call us to schedule a quick visit to have it clipped.
Loose Bracket or Band
Brackets are the metal or ceramic squares bonded to your teeth.
What to do: If a bracket comes loose but is still attached to the wire, leave it in place and cover it with wax if it’s bothering you. If it comes off completely, save it in a small bag and bring it to your next appointment. Call our office to let us know what happened.
Loose Wire
Sometimes a wire can come out of a bracket.
What to do: You can often gently guide the wire back into place with a pair of tweezers. If the wire has slid to one side, you may be able to use needle-nosed pliers to gently pull it back.
When to Call Us Immediately
While the above issues can be managed temporarily, please call our office as soon as possible if you experience any of the following:
- A traumatic injury to the mouth or face
- Severe or unmanageable pain
- A broken or loose appliance that is causing significant discomfort
- Swelling or infection of the gums or face
Important: Even after you’ve temporarily fixed an issue, it’s crucial to call our office to let us know. A damaged appliance can affect your treatment plan if it isn’t properly repaired.