During orthodontic treatment, unexpected issues can happen from time to time. Knowing what counts as a true emergency (and what can safely wait) can help you stay comfortable and protect your treatment progress. Below, we explain how to handle common orthodontic appliance problems and direct injuries to the mouth or teeth.
What Should I Do If I Have an Orthodontic Appliance Emergency?
Orthodontic emergencies can happen occasionally during treatment, especially if you wear braces, clear aligners, or other orthodontic appliances. A loose bracket, broken wire, or irritation can feel uncomfortable, but most issues can be managed safely until you can be seen in our office.
If you notice a problem with your braces or orthodontic appliance, please contact San Marcos Orthodontics during regular business hours so we can schedule an emergency visit. For the comfort of all patients, we do not accept walk-in emergency appointments.
Below are helpful tips for managing common orthodontic appliance problems until you can be seen.
What If a Wire Is Poking or Irritating My Mouth?
If a wire is rubbing your cheek, lips, or gums, you can try the following:
- Apply orthodontic wax or beeswax over the irritating area
- Use a cotton swab or pencil eraser to gently tuck the wire under the archwire
If irritation continues or the wire cannot be repositioned comfortably, please call our office so we can schedule a repair visit.
What If I Have a Loose Bracket or Loose Band?
If a bracket or band becomes loose:
- Leave it in place if possible
- Avoid hard, sticky, or crunchy foods
- Contact our office so we can schedule an appointment to reattach or repair the appliance
Even if it doesn’t hurt, a loose bracket can reduce treatment efficiency and may slow progress if not addressed.
What If an Archwire Breaks or Starts Poking?
If the archwire breaks or begins poking:
- Try gently bending it inward with a pencil eraser
- If necessary, you may carefully trim the end using clean nail clippers
- Call our office so we can confirm whether you need to be seen before your next appointment
Even if the discomfort improves, it’s still important to notify us so your treatment stays on track.
What Should I Do If I Have a Direct Injury to My Mouth or Teeth?
If you experience an injury to your mouth or teeth (whether or not you are in orthodontic treatment):
- Apply ice to the injured area right away to reduce swelling
- Contact your general dentist immediately
Your dentist will typically take an X-ray to determine the extent of the injury. If a tooth has been displaced, knocked out, fractured, or is very painful, your general dentist should be your first call, since they may need to provide treatment that requires anesthesia or restorative materials.
If your orthodontic appliances are damaged during the injury, contact San Marcos Orthodontics after your dentist visit so we can repair or adjust any braces or appliances as needed.
What If I Have an Emergency After Office Hours?
If you experience severe pain or an urgent orthodontic issue outside of business hours, please contact San Marcos Orthodontics for guidance. We provide instructions for reaching our team or emergency contact support when the office is closed.
Your comfort and safety are important to us, and we’re always here to help you manage orthodontic emergencies as quickly as possible.
