Emergency Information

Most orthodontic emergencies can be remedied at home until an appointment can be obtained. Rarely a true emergency, the discomfort from a problem with the braces can be upsetting. The staff is always on call for your concerns and emergencies, but to assist in some common problems, we have listed below some possible solutions to deal with on a temporary basis until seen by Dr. Bright. The videos below the bulleted list provide additional information.

How to Deal with Emergencies with Braces

1. Broken or loose braces – If the bracket comes off of the tooth, it is normally still attached to the wire with an elastic tie, preventing swallowing. If it is necessary to cut the wire, use clippers that have been sterilized in alcohol and schedule an appointment for the next day.
2. Loose bracket – Call our office to see if the bracket or main wire needs to be refitted. If necessary, you may cut the wire with fingernail clippers that have been washed and sterilized in alcohol. Schedule an appointment for the next day.
3. Orthodontic pain and discomfort – In the early phase of treatment, discomfort is a normal part of orthodontic treatment. You may take acetaminophen or other non-aspirin pain medication. A warm wash cloth, heating pad or warm salt water rinse may relieve the soreness.
4. Wire irritation – If irritation is caused by your braces, try gently moving the wire away from the irritation with a cotton swab or an eraser. The wire can also be covered with a small piece of cotton or orthodontic wax. If this does not relieve the discomfort, the wire can be cut with a sterilized pair of nail clippers. Make an appointment the next day.
5. Lost separator – It is very common to lose a separator during orthodontic treatment. Call our office to see if the separator needs to be replaced.

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