Orthodontics | Emergencies

There are very few true orthodontic emergencies. Most problems can be remedied at home. However, if you have a situation that you cannot resolve on your own, call us as soon as possible, so we can fit you in for a repair appointment. In the meantime, this page can help resolve minor problems you may encounter during your orthodontic treatment.

Sore Teeth

If your teeth are sore after a visit, you may take acetaminophen or other non-aspirin pain relievers while you adjust to your new braces. A warm wash cloth, heating pad, or warm salt water rinse may reduce the soreness in your jaws.

Wire Irritation

If your braces cause irritation, try moving the wire away from the irritated area with a cotton swab or pencil eraser. If the wire will not move, try covering the end of it with a small piece of cotton or wax. If the wire is painful, you can cut it with nail clippers or scissors that have been washed and sterilized in alcohol.

Loose Bracket

If the main wire or a bracket comes loose, first call our office to have it repaired on your next appointment. If you have a situation where you must cut the wire or slide a bracket off the wire, you may use fingernail clippers that have been washed and sterilized in alcohol. Please call our office on the next business day to schedule a repair appointment.

Lost Separator

If a separator comes out, call our office to have it replaced if you next appointment is not within the next few days. Some patients may lose a separator during treatment which is common.