Emergencies Related to Orthodontic Appliances
Orthodontic appliances occasionally become bent or broken, and swift action can help prevent discomfort or further issues. If you experience any of the following problems, please contact us during regular hours for an appointment:
Irritating Tie Wires
If a tie wire is causing discomfort, cover it with beeswax or tuck it under the archwire using a blunt object, like a pencil eraser or Q-tip.
Loose Bands or Brackets
These can generally stay in place until you’re seen by our team. If you notice a loose band or bracket, call our office to schedule a visit. We’ll assess and, if needed, reattach the appliance.
Broken or Poking Archwires
If an archwire is poking or broken, you can often bend it in with a pencil eraser or trim it with nail clippers. If the issue persists, call us for guidance.
Please note that for the convenience of scheduled patients, we are unable to handle emergency visits on a walk-in basis.
Direct Injuries to the Mouth and Teeth
For direct injuries to the mouth, like a knocked-out or fractured tooth, follow these steps:
Immediate Action
Apply ice to the affected area and reach out to your general dentist promptly. An x-ray may be required to fully understand the injury’s extent.
Dental Injuries
If a tooth is displaced, fractured, or knocked out, contact your family dentist first, as specialized materials or anesthesia may be necessary for treatment. Once you’ve seen your dentist, we can adjust or replace any dislodged appliances based on your comfort.
After Office Hours Support
If an orthodontic emergency occurs after hours and the patient is in pain, please contact us for further assistance. Our on-call team is available to guide you in managing discomfort and finding relief until the office reopens.
For urgent support, our orthodontists are committed to providing quality orthodontic care, ensuring your treatment journey remains as comfortable as possible.
