Emergency Orthodontic Care
Orthodontic emergencies can happen, and when they do, Smile & Co. Orthodontics is here to help. Whether a bracket comes loose, a wire starts poking, or an aligner goes missing, Dr. Sam Kadan is ready to guide you through the next steps. Most orthodontic issues are not true emergencies, but quick attention ensures your treatment stays on track.
If something feels uncomfortable or breaks, simply contact our office, and we will schedule the earliest possible appointment. Our team can also walk you through temporary at-home solutions to keep you comfortable until you come in.
What Do I Do in Case of an Emergency?
If you notice that a part of your braces is loose or broken, or if you lose a retainer or Invisalign® aligner, call our office right away. We’ll provide instructions over the phone and arrange an appointment so we can fix the issue promptly.
Loose Brackets
A loose bracket means the bracket has detached from your tooth. Call us to schedule a repair appointment. If the loose bracket is causing irritation, we may instruct you to carefully snip the connecting wire with clean nail clippers. During your visit, Dr. Kadan will replace the bracket or reconnect the wire to restore proper function.
Wire Irritations
A bent or broken wire can poke your cheeks, lips, or gums. You can:
- Gently push the wire into a more comfortable position using a cotton swab or pencil eraser.
- Place orthodontic wax or clean cotton over the wire if it continues to irritate you.
- If needed, cut the wire with sterilized nail clippers.
After taking these steps, contact our office so we can fix the wire properly.
Lost Separators or Spacers
Separators sometimes fall out on their own when the space between teeth becomes adequate. Although this is usually not serious, you should still contact our office so Dr. Kadan can determine whether it needs to be replaced to keep your treatment plan moving forward.
Discomfort With Orthodontic Treatment
It’s normal to experience mild soreness when braces are first placed or after adjustments. You can manage this discomfort by:
- Taking over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen
- Applying warm compresses using a heating pad or warm washcloth
Any discomfort should fade within a few days. If soreness does not improve, reach out to our team for guidance.
If you ever feel unsure about a problem with your braces, aligners, or retainers, Smile & Co. Orthodontics is only a phone call away. We’re here to keep your treatment safe, smooth, and stress-free.
Frequently Asked Questions
Orthodontic issues can sometimes feel overwhelming, but most can be managed easily with the right guidance. Here are common questions about handling orthodontic concerns at Smile & Co. Orthodontics.
What Should I Do If A Bracket Becomes Loose?
If a bracket detaches from your tooth, call our office to schedule a repair. If the loose bracket is sliding or causing irritation, you can use orthodontic wax to hold it in place or gently snip the connecting wire with clean nail clippers until Dr. Sam Kadan can see you.
How Can I Fix A Wire That Is Poking My Cheek?
You can gently push a poking wire into a more comfortable position using a blunt object like a pencil eraser or a cotton swab. If the wire continues to cause discomfort, cover the sharp end with orthodontic wax or clean cotton to protect your gums and cheeks.
Is It Normal To Feel Sore After Getting Braces Adjusted?
Yes, it is very common to experience mild soreness for a few days after your braces are placed or adjusted. You can manage this discomfort with over the counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or by applying a warm compress to the area.
What Happens If I Lose A Separator Or Spacer?
Separators often fall out on their own once enough space has been created between your teeth. While this is usually not an emergency, you should still contact our office so we can determine if the spacer needs to be replaced before your next visit.
What Should I Do If I Experience A Direct Injury To My Mouth?
If you suffer a direct blow to your teeth or jaw, immediately ice the area and contact your general dentist first. They are best equipped to handle fractured or knocked-out teeth and can provide any necessary X-rays or anesthesia before we adjust your orthodontic appliances.