Orthodontic Emergencies

If a bracket, band, or wire has loosened, please call or text our office immediately. We will guide you on the appropriate next steps. We will likely repair the bracket at your next scheduled appointment. If you are experiencing discomfort and need to clip a wire, we recommend using fingernail clippers that have been washed and sterilized in alcohol. If unable to clip the wire, we are happy to schedule an emergency appointment to make you comfortable.

If the wire is irritating your cheeks or gums, you can move the wire away from the irritated area by using a cotton swab or eraser. If you cannot move the wire, cover the end of it with a small piece of cotton or wax to relieve irritation. If the wire is still painful, you can cut it with nail clippers or scissors that have been washed and sterilized in alcohol. If unable to clip the wire, we are happy to schedule an emergency appointment to make you comfortable.

If a separator is lost please call or text our office. If your appointment is within a few days from the date the separator is lost, we may not require you to come into the office for replacement.

During the first week after your braces are placed, and after routine adjustments, you may feel some soreness, discomfort, and mild mobility of the teeth. This is normal and expected. We recommend taking acetaminophen or another non-aspirin pain reliever if your teeth are sore after adjustment appointments. You may also wish to use a warm washcloth or heating pad to reduce soreness in the jaws.

If you experience an orthodontic emergency, such as a broken or lost appliance, please call or text our office as soon as possible. Your comfort is our priority. Bring all pieces to your next appointment so we can assess and repair or replace it.