Emergency Care

Handling Orthodontic Appliance Emergencies

Orthodontic appliances may occasionally become loose, bent, or broken during treatment. If you experience any of the following issues, please call our office during patient hours to schedule an appointment. Walk-ins for emergencies cannot be accommodated to ensure timely care for scheduled patients.

Common Appliance Issues and Temporary Fixes

• Irritating Tie Wires: If a tie wire is causing discomfort, cover it with orthodontic wax or gently push it under the archwire using a pencil eraser or Q-tip.

• Loose Brackets or Bands: Leave the loose bracket or band in place and avoid touching it. Call our office during patient hours to schedule an appointment for reattachment.

• Broken or Poking Archwires: If an archwire is poking or broken, attempt to bend it in with a pencil eraser or trim it carefully with sanitized nail clippers. If discomfort persists, call our office for further assistance.

Direct Injuries to the Mouth and Teeth

In the event of a trauma or direct injury to the mouth, whether you are undergoing orthodontic treatment or not, follow these steps:

1. Apply ice to the affected area immediately to minimize swelling.

2. Contact your general dentist as soon as possible, as an x-ray may be necessary to assess the injury.

3. If a tooth is displaced, knocked out, or fractured, your dentist should be the first point of contact, as they have the necessary materials and anesthesia for treatment.

4. If orthodontic appliances are damaged or displaced, we will adjust or replace them as needed after your dentist has treated the injury.

Emergency Care After Office Hours

If you experience severe pain or an urgent orthodontic issue after office hours, please contact our office. We provide information on who to reach for additional assistance when immediate care is necessary.

Your comfort and safety are our priorities. If you have any questions or concerns about an orthodontic emergency, do not hesitate to reach out to our office for guidance!