Orthodontic emergencies typically involve a poking wire causing irritation to the gum or inner cheek. On occasion a bracket may become loose or fall away from the tooth. In these cases, we ask that you call our office to schedule an appointment.
Dental emergencies while wearing braces or other orthodontic appliances fall into two categories:
- Direct injuries to the mouth and teeth
- Emergencies related to orthodontic appliances.
Direct injuries to the mouth and teeth
You should see your dentist right away after a direct injury to your mouth or teeth, whether undergoing orthodontic care or not. If you cannot see your dentist, you can go to a local emergency facility and ask for the dentist on call. Usually a radiograph (x-ray) of the tooth or teeth is needed to determine the extent of injury. If a tooth has been knocked out, severely displaced or fractured, it is best to contact your family dentist. If the orthodontic appliances are dislodged or displaced, we will need to replace or adjust them as soon as possible. Please call our office immediately after seeing your family dentist.
Emergencies related to orthodontic appliances
You may be able to solve many braces problems temporarily by yourself until you schedule a repair appointment with our office.
| Problem | Home Solution |
| Loose Band or Bracket | If a band or bracket has come loose, but is still attached to wire, leave it in place. If uncomfortable, place wax on it. If it comes out completely, wrap it in tissue. Please call us to schedule an emergency appointment. |
| Loose Wire | Try to place the wire back in place with tweezers. If that is not possible, clip the wire with fingernail clippers behind last tooth to which it is securely fastened. If there is any discomfort, place wax on it. |
| Poking Wire | Try to push sticking wire down with a spoon or eraser. If not possible, place wax on it. |
| Lost Tie Wire or Tie Wire Soreness | Please call us. |
| Elastic Tie Soreness: | Use warm salt water rinses and/or non-prescription pain reliever. |
| Headgear Doesn’t Fit | Sometimes caused by not wearing as prescribed. If the face bow is bent call our office. |
| Loose Appliance | If an appliance is poking or causing soreness, call us. |