Orthodontic treatment is a journey towards a healthier, more beautiful smile, but sometimes things can go awry. While orthodontic emergencies aren’t typically dangerous, they can be uncomfortable and annoying. Knowing how to handle these situations can save you stress and keep your treatment on track. Below, we'll walk you through the four most common orthodontic emergencies and what you can do if they happen.

1. Poking or Dislodged Wire

A poking wire can cause discomfort as it rubs against your cheek or gums. Fortunately, there are a few quick fixes you can try at home:

• Use orthodontic wax: Take a small piece of wax and roll it into a ball, dry off your tooth in that area well with a paper towel, then place the wax over the sharp end of the wire to protect your mouth.
• Try reinserting the wire: If the wire has come out of the last bracket (also called a tube), gently guide it back in using tweezers.
• Clip the wire yourself: If the wire is too long and you can’t fix it, you can use clean fingernail clippers to carefully trim the wire.

If you're unable to resolve the issue or feel uncomfortable trying, give us a call. We’ll gladly see you for a quick wire clip during business hours to make you more comfortable.

2. Broken Bracket

A broken bracket may sound like a big deal, but it’s usually not a true emergency. Here’s how to handle it:

• Front bracket: If the bracket is on one of your front teeth and is still attached to the wire, you can leave it in place. Call us so we can schedule a repair, or we’ll add extra time to your next scheduled appointment to fix it.
• Back bracket: If the back bracket is broken, the wire may feel long. In this case, follow the steps outlined in the poking wire section to make yourself more comfortable until we can repair it.

3. Loose Appliance

Sometimes an appliance, such as a space maintainer or a palatal expander, may become loose on one side. Here's what to do:

• Try to reposition the appliance: If the appliance has slipped, gently attempt to slide it back into place around the tooth.
• If the appliance won't stay in place: Try wiggling the other side until the glue loosens and the appliance comes out entirely. Hold onto the appliance and bring it to your next visit for us to re-glue.

If it’s a part of your braces (like a Forsus appliance), you can tie the loose part to the braces using a small piece of floss to prevent it from moving around and causing irritation until we see you.

4. Allergic Reaction

Though very rare, allergic reactions can occur after receiving braces, aligners, or appliances. If you experience symptoms such as tingling, stinging, swelling, or redness near your orthodontic devices, here’s what you should do:

• Call our office right away: We can assess your symptoms and advise on next steps.
• If you're having difficulty breathing: Seek immediate medical attention by going to the emergency room.

When in Doubt, Contact Us!

Most orthodontic emergencies can be managed at home temporarily, but we’re always here to help. If you ever feel unsure or need assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team at Ascend Orthodontics. We’ll make sure your treatment stays on track and as comfortable as possible.

By staying calm and knowing what to do, you can handle these common orthodontic hiccups with confidence!

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