What Are Common Orthodontic Emergencies, And How Should I Handle Them?
Orthodontic treatment is a journey, and while the path to a beautiful smile is exciting, unexpected detours can happen. At Midland Orthodontics, we understand that orthodontic emergencies can be uncomfortable and sometimes even alarming. Knowing what qualifies as an emergency—and how to respond—can make all the difference in keeping your treatment on track.
Whether it’s a broken bracket, a poking wire, or a lost aligner, our team is here to support you with compassionate care and expert advice. This guide will help you recognize common orthodontic emergencies, manage minor issues at home, and know when to contact us for help.
This Article Will Address:
- What qualifies as an orthodontic emergency
- How to manage common emergencies like broken brackets and poking wires
- What to do if your Invisalign tray cracks or retainer is lost
- How urgent different types of issues are
- Tips for relieving discomfort from new braces
- How to prevent orthodontic emergencies before they start
What Is Considered an Orthodontic Emergency?
- Loose or broken brackets – Apply wax if it’s irritating soft tissue. Avoid sticky or hard foods and call us.
- Poking wires – Try gently repositioning with a pencil eraser or apply wax. Contact us if it persists.
- Dislodged bands – Save the band and bring it with you to your appointment.
- Cracked or lost aligners – Stop using if it’s uncomfortable. Call us for instructions.
- Soreness or soft tissue injuries – Use saltwater rinses, cold compresses, or over-the-counter pain relief.
Not everything uncomfortable is necessarily an emergency, but here’s how you can tell:
Call us promptly for:
- A broken wire poking into cheeks or gums
- Severe or worsening pain
- Swelling or signs of infection
- A bracket or appliance that completely detaches from the tooth
Often manageable at home:
- Mild soreness or pressure from new adjustments
- Lost elastic ties or rubber bands
- Slightly loose brackets not causing irritation
If you’re ever unsure, it’s always better to call and ask. Our team is here to help.
How Do I Handle a Broken Bracket?
Brackets may break due to hard foods, sticky snacks, or an accidental bump to the mouth. If this happens:
- Apply orthodontic wax to reduce irritation.
- Avoid playing with the loose bracket using your tongue or fingers.
- Call Midland Orthodontics to schedule a repair. Even if it’s not painful, it can interfere with your treatment progress if not addressed.
How to Deal With a Poking Braces Wire
A poking wire is a common irritation, especially during early treatment stages:
- Use a clean pencil eraser to gently bend the wire back toward your teeth.
- Apply orthodontic wax over the sharp end to prevent injury.
- If discomfort continues or the wire becomes more painful, contact our office to schedule an adjustment.
What Should I Do If My Invisalign Tray Cracks?
- Stop wearing it if it no longer fits properly or causes irritation.
- Contact Midland Orthodontics. Depending on your treatment stage, we may recommend moving to the next tray or ordering a replacement.
- Avoid trying to repair it yourself with glue or tape, as this can be unsafe for your teeth and gums.
What Should I Do If I Lose My Retainer?
Retainers are essential to maintaining your results after active orthodontic treatment.
- Look in common spots like napkins, under beds or pillows, and in laundry. Pets are also known to chew on them.
- Call our office right away. We’ll schedule a visit to replace the retainer and help prevent unwanted tooth movement.
How Urgent Is a Loose Bracket or Wire?
The urgency depends on the severity and discomfort. Here’s a general guide:
- Mild Discomfort: Use wax to prevent irritation and call us during business hours.
- Moderate Pain or Irritation: Contact us to schedule a sooner appointment.
- Interferes with Eating or Speaking: Call immediately so we can evaluate and resolve the issue quickly.
How Do I Relieve Discomfort from New Braces at Home?
It’s completely normal to feel soreness during the first few days after getting braces or an adjustment. To ease discomfort:
- Rinse your mouth with warm salt water.
- Apply a cold compress on the outside of your mouth.
- Take over-the-counter pain medication, as directed.
- Stick to soft foods like soup, yogurt, mashed potatoes, and smoothies.
If soreness continues for more than a few days or worsens, give us a call.
How Can I Prevent Orthodontic Emergencies?
While some situations are unavoidable, many orthodontic emergencies can be prevented with simple precautions:
- Avoid hard foods like nuts, popcorn, or ice
- Stay away from sticky or chewy candies
- Wear a mouthguard during sports
- Brush and floss carefully to keep your appliances clean and intact
- Follow your orthodontist’s care instructions closely
It’s also a good idea to keep a small orthodontic kit with wax, floss, a mirror, and a clean eraser for on-the-go comfort.
Need Help With an Orthodontic Emergency in Poway, CA?
Orthodontic emergencies can be stressful, but you don’t have to face them alone. At Midland Orthodontics, we provide timely and compassionate care to get you back on track quickly. Dr. Yoo and our team are dedicated to helping patients of all ages enjoy a smooth, worry-free treatment journey.
If you’re experiencing an orthodontic emergency in Poway, CA, don’t wait. Contact us today to book an appointment and get expert care from a team that truly cares about your smile.
Sources:
- American Association of Orthodontists – https://www.aaoinfo.org
- Invisalign – https://www.invisalign.com
Enjoy the Journey to a Beautiful Smile
Our friendly and experienced team provides exceptional orthodontic care…every step of the way.
Dr. Ethan J. Yoo, DDS, MSD, is a compassionate orthodontist in Poway, CA, dedicated to guiding patients through a pleasant orthodontic journey toward a beautiful smile. A Bay Area native, Dr. Yoo earned his Bachelor’s degree in Biology from UC Berkeley and discovered his passion for orthodontics while working as an orthodontic assistant. He achieved his dental degree with High Honors from the University of the Pacific School of Dentistry and completed his Orthodontic Residency at the University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, where he received extensive training in various orthodontic treatments.