Orthodontic Emergency Guide
Quick solutions for common orthodontic concerns
What to do when something feels off , before your next visit
Most orthodontic problems are uncomfortable rather than dangerous, and many can be managed temporarily at home until we can see you. Use this guide to find simple solutions for braces, Invisalign, retainers, and palatal expanders, and learn when it is time to contact our office.
FOR PATIENTS IN BRACES
Braces Troubles? Start Here
Pokey Wires
What you may notice:
A wire may shift and begin irritating your cheek or gums.
What you can do at home:
Dry the area.
Roll orthodontic wax into a small ball.
Press it over the irritating wire.
You may gently push the wire toward the tooth using a clean cotton swab or pencil eraser.
If a wire is poking your cheek, use clean nail clippers to carefully trim it if you can safely access it
Contact our office if:
The wire continues to hurt, cannot be repositioned, or is interfering with eating or sleeping.
Wax is available in our office, and can also be found at most pharmacies or online.
Pokey Wire Fix with Wax
Learn how to quickly relieve irritation at home
Sores, Cuts, or Irritation
Rinse with warm salt water
Use wax over irritating areas
Most minor sores heal quickly once irritation is removed
Call us if:
It doesn’t improve in a few days
You notice swelling, pus, or increasing pain
Broken Brackets
What you may notice:
A bracket has come loose from the tooth
What you can do at home:
Leave the bracket attached to the wire if possible.
Apply orthodontic wax if it is rubbing.
Gently slide the bracket toward the center of the tooth only if it moves easily and doing so makes it more comfortable. Do not force it.
Avoid hard, sticky, or chewy foods.
Contact our office so we can determine whether a repair appointment is needed.
Contact our office if:
The bracket is broken at all, comes completely off, causes significant discomfort, or prevents you from wearing elastics as instructed.
Broken Bracket Temporary Fix
Simple steps to stay comfortable until your appointment
Call us right away so we can replace it and protect your smile.
Bite Jumpers come apart
What you may notice:
Springs coming apart from the rods, Teeth shifting more than expected and new discomfort or uneven bite feeling
What you can do at home:
This can occasionally happen when the mouth opens widely.
If you have been shown how, gently guide the spring back onto the rod.
Do not force any part of the appliance.
Contact our office if:
It will not reconnect.
The appliance feels loose or bent.
You notice increasing pain or a sudden change in your bite.
If anything feels unusual, call our office so we can check it.
Bite Jumper Tips
What to do if your springs come out
Lost or Broken Elastics
Replace them with a fresh set as instructed.
Never double the number of elastics to make up for missed wear.
Do not share elastics with another patient.
Call or stop by if you run out.
FOR EXPANDERS
If you are having any issues with your expander or appliance, please call our office. We will guide you on next steps and make sure everything is working properly.
Need help with your expander?
FOR RETAINERS
Lost or broken retainer?
