At first, having orthodontic treatment may take a little getting used to. It isn't uncommon to experience a bit of soreness when appliances are first put on, or some minor aches as teeth begin moving into new positions. Yet it's comforting to know that genuine orthodontic emergencies are rare. If you think you may have an emergency, however, the first step is to determine the severity of the problem: Is it an urgent situation that requires immediate attention, or a minor problem that you can take care of yourself, temporarily, until you can come in to our office?
There are only a few true orthodontic (or dental) emergencies. They include:
Trauma or injury to the teeth, face or mouthInfection or swelling of the gums, mouth or faceSevere, unmanageable discomfort or pain in these areasIf you have a dental emergency, seek help promptly—go to the ER if needed, but your regular dentist is often the best first step. They can handle issues like fractures, pain, or swelling and adjust your orthodontic plan afterward if necessary.
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:
Braces issues can happen from eating hard or sticky foods or playing with them. If a bracket is loose but still on the wire, leave it—just don’t attach elastics. Use orthodontic wax to reduce irritation. If it comes off, save the piece and call us to schedule a visit. Bring any loose parts with you.
If a wire is poking or irritating your mouth, try shifting it with a clean pencil eraser or Q-Tip. If needed, carefully trim it with a sterilized nail clipper—but call us first for guidance. Wax can help ease discomfort from wires or brackets.
Some soreness or loose teeth are normal and show progress. Use over-the-counter pain relievers, salt-water rinses, or a warm compress for 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!
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