Emergency Orthodontic Care

Most patients will not encounter many “emergencies” while having braces. However, accidents can and do happen. Many orthodontic emergencies can be handled in the comfort of your own home.

Emergencies that require immediate attention from your dentist:

• Direct injury to the tooth or mouth (may also require orthodontic care).
• Lost Tooth Broken Tooth – If part of a tooth broke, again, call us or your dentist.

Orthodontic issues that may require our attention:

• Loose Bracket – Call us if your bracket becomes loose or detached from a tooth.
• Archwire or Ligature Wire Problems – If a portion of the wire has become loose and is poking an area of the mouth, try to limit movement with orthodontic wax. Call us to schedule an appointment to get it fixed.
• Irritation of Lips or Cheeks – New braces can be uncomfortable or irritating to the mouth.  Orthodontic wax can be applied to buffer the space between the braces and the rest of the mouth.
• Mouth Sores or General Discomfort – Topical anesthetics such as Orabase and Ora-Gel that are applied with a cotton swab to problem areas can provide some relief.  For general discomfort, it is best to eat soft foods.  The patient may want to rinse their mouth with warm salt water. Ibuprofen and other over-the-counter pain relievers can be effective in reducing discomfort.

You can handle most any minor problem with your braces with the following supplies:

• Dental floss
• Interproximal brush
• Non-medicated orthodontic relief wax
• Non-prescription pain reliever
• Oral topical anesthetic (such as Orabase or Ora-Gel)