Orthodontic emergencies are relatively rare, but we are available to help you when they do happen. You should call our office when you experience severe pain or have a painful appliance problem and need additional assistance.

You may be able to solve many problems yourself temporarily until you can get to our office. If there is a loose piece that you can remove, put it in a plastic bag and bring it to your next appointment. If your braces are poking you, put soft wax on the piece that is sticking out.

After alleviating your discomfort, it is very important that you still call our office as soon as possible to schedule a time to repair the problem.

Loose Bracket

If your bracket or band is still attached to the wire, you should leave it in place and put wax on it if needed for comfort. If the bracket or band can be removed easily, place it in an envelope and save it to bring to your next appointment.

Loose Wire

Using a pair of tweezers or needle-nosed pliers, try to put your wire back into place. It is okay to use a piece of floss to tie the wire into place: tie the floss around the bracket in place of the missing, colored o-ring. If you cannot put the wire into a comfortable position, and covering the end with wax doesn’t help, as a last resort use a small fingernail clipper to clip the wire behind the last tooth to which it is securely fastened. If the end of the wire is still sharp place wax on it.

Poking Wire

Using a pencil eraser, push the poking wire down or place wax on it so that it is no longer poking.

Loose Appliance

If your appliance is poking you, place wax on the offending part.

OFFICE VISIT

What to expect on your first visit, check out our inviting atmosphere and forms and process for making the smile.

ORTHODONTIC FAQs

How long does it take, how much does it cost, will it hurt…. Find answers to all these questions and more.