Orthodontic Emergencies

Orthodontic emergencies can happen unexpectedly. A broken bracket, loose wire, or damaged retainer can be uncomfortable and may affect your orthodontic treatment. At Progressive Smiles Orthodontics, we are here to help you understand what to do when an orthodontic problem occurs.

If you are experiencing an orthodontic emergency, contact our office for guidance. We can help determine the appropriate next step and whether you need to be seen by our orthodontic team.

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A Major Orthodontic Emergency

Not every orthodontic problem requires immediate emergency care. However, some issues should be addressed promptly to prevent discomfort or disruption to your treatment.

There are only a few true orthodontic (or dental) emergencies. They include:

Trauma or injury to the teeth, face or mouth
Infection or swelling of the gums, mouth or face
Severe, unmanageable discomfort or pain in these areas

In any of these situations, you should seek help as soon as possible — go to an emergency room, if that’s your best option. Generally, however, the place to start is with your regular dentist. Remember that he or she is trained to handle a range of dental problems, and can most likely offer the necessary diagnostic tools, anesthetics and treatments you need. If, for example, you have a fractured tooth, your dentist will treat the immediate problem and arrange for the tooth’s restoration; afterwards your orthodontic treatment plan can be adjusted as needed. Likewise, severe pain or swelling could be a sign of infection or disease, which a dentist or periodontist is best able to treat.

Some Minor Troubles

Fortunately, the vast majority of orthodontic problems are minor compared to these situations — but they may still cause discomfort or irritation. In general, it's best to try and soothe the immediate cause of the discomfort, and then call our office to schedule an appointment; that way, we can allot sufficient time to take care of you. Here are a few of the more common orthodontic problems, along with some tips on what you can do to relieve them at home:

Loose or broken brackets, bands or wires

This problem is often caused by eating hard or sticky candy or food, or playing with the braces. If the band or bracket is still attached to the wire, leave it as is — but don't connect any elastics to it! You can cover it with orthodontic wax if it's irritating the inside of your mouth. If it has come off, save it. In either case, call our office to let us know what happened, and we will schedule a visit. Be sure to bring any loose parts with you to the appointment!

Misplaced or poking archwire, bracket or tie

As the teeth start to move, the wire that connects them (archwire) may begin poking near the back of the mouth or irritating the cheeks. You can try moving the wire into a better position with a pencil eraser or a Q-Tip. If the wire won't move, you may be able to cut the end off with a nail clipper sterilized in alcohol — but before doing so, please call our office for our guidance or instructions. Often, you can also use tweezers to gently move a misplaced wire or a tie that's causing problems.

When wires or brackets cause irritation, covering the metal parts with wax will often help ease the discomfort. As with any of these types of problems, call our office and we'll schedule a time to see you.

General tooth pain or loosening

It's normal for teeth to become slightly loosened during orthodontic treatment — that shows they're moving! Sometimes, this movement may be accompanied by tenderness, especially after braces are placed or adjusted. For minor soreness, you can use your regular over-the-counter pain reliever. A twice-a-day salt-water rinse may also help: Mix one teaspoon of salt in an 8-ounce glass of warm water, and rinse for 30 seconds. A warm washcloth or heating pad placed on the outside of the jaw can also offer some relief.

While actual emergencies are rare, our goal is to make orthodontic treatment as comfortable as possible. If you need additional advice, don’t hesitate to call us!

(636) 230-9933

Orthodontic Emergency Care in Jefferson City, MO

An orthodontic emergency is a problem with braces, wires, brackets, retainers, or another orthodontic appliance that requires prompt attention. Common concerns include broken brackets, poking wires, damaged appliances, and significant discomfort.

Do not pull or forcefully manipulate a broken wire. If the wire has a sharp end, orthodontic wax may provide temporary relief. Contact your orthodontist to determine whether you need an appointment.

Place orthodontic wax over the irritating area to help protect your cheek, lips, or gums. Contact your orthodontist if the wire continues to cause discomfort or if you are unable to manage the irritation.

Most orthodontic emergencies can be addressed with a same-day or next-day appointment rather than a walk-in, since our team reserves time each week for urgent repairs. Call ahead so staff can prepare the right materials for your specific issue.

Orthodontic Emergency Care in Jefferson City, MO

Unexpected orthodontic problems can be stressful, but you do not have to manage them alone. Whether you have a broken bracket, poking wire, damaged braces, or a lost retainer, Progressive Smiles Orthodontics can help you understand what to do next.

Our orthodontic team is committed to helping patients maintain comfortable and effective treatment. If you are experiencing an orthodontic emergency in Jefferson City, MO, contact Progressive Smiles Orthodontics for guidance.