Orthodontic Emergency Care
While orthodontic emergencies are rare, they can happen—especially when you’re active or wearing appliances like braces. Here’s what to know if something feels off.
When Your Braces Need Help
Broken or bent appliances can cause discomfort or delay your treatment. While it’s best to call us during office hours for any urgent concerns, you can often manage the issue temporarily at home.
Here’s how to handle common appliance problems until your appointment:
Irritating wire?
Use orthodontic wax to cover it, or gently tuck it under the archwire with a pencil eraser or Q-tip. If a wire has shifted to one side, you can also try using tweezers or a needle-nosed plier to guide it back into position.Loose bracket or band?
No need to panic—if the bracket is still on the wire, place a pea-sized amount of wax over it to stabilize it. Then call our office to schedule a repair during regular hours.Poking or broken archwire?
Use clean nail clippers to carefully trim the wire close to the last securely tied tooth. You can also try to gently push the wire into place with an eraser. Once trimmed, cover the end with wax to prevent irritation.
Please note: We cannot accommodate walk-in emergencies. Always contact us first to schedule a time that allows us to care for you properly.
Even if you’re able to manage the problem at home, it’s still important to call us to discuss whether you need to come in sooner.
General Discomfort
Some soreness is totally normal—especially when you first get your braces or after an adjustment. This is just your teeth beginning to move into place.
Expect dull soreness for up to five days.
Stick to soft foods like mashed potatoes or smoothies to minimize sensitivity.
Over-the-counter pain relievers like Tylenol® or Acetaminophen can help.
Warm salt water rinses can soothe irritated areas in the mouth.
Applying wax to rough or poking spots can protect the inside of your cheeks and lips.
Orabase®—available at most pharmacies—can be applied to tender areas inside the mouth for extra relief.
🦷 It usually takes up to two weeks for your cheeks and lips to adjust to braces. These small home remedies can help ease the transition.
Injuries to the Mouth or Teeth
If you’ve had a direct injury—whether you’re in braces or not—take immediate action:
Apply ice to reduce swelling.
Contact your general dentist right away. Most injuries require an x-ray and dental evaluation.
After your dental visit, come see us if your orthodontic appliances have shifted—we’ll make sure your treatment stays on track.
Fractured, displaced, or knocked-out teeth are best handled by your dentist first, as they have the tools and anesthesia needed for emergency care.
After-Hours Emergencies
In pain outside of regular office hours?
Call our office and follow the after-hours instructions. We’ll guide you to the next best step to get you out of discomfort as quickly as possible.