Orthodontic emergencies, like a broken wire, can feel overwhelming in the moment, but most are more manageable than they initially seem. The team at Baller Dental & Ortho understands, so let’s break down some of the most common situations so you'll know what to do if (and when) they happen to you.
Orthodontic Emergencies vs. Minor Issues
When You Need Immediate Attention:
- Severe trauma to your face, mouth, or teeth
- Loose or knocked-out teeth
- Broken or loose brackets causing cuts or severe discomfort
What Can Usually Wait a Day or Two:
- Loose brackets that aren't painful
- Poking wires causing minor irritation
- Lost rubber bands
- Mild soreness after adjustments
- Minor irritation from appliances
Most orthodontic "emergencies" fall into that second category and can be handled with some simple at-home care until you can see your Aurora orthodontic team.
Common Braces Emergencies and Quick Fixes
Loose or Broken Brackets
If a bracket comes loose but isn't causing pain, you can usually wait until your next appointment or call during business hours to schedule a repair visit. Here's what to do in the meantime:
- Leave the bracket in place if it's still attached to the wire
- If it's completely loose, remove it carefully and bring it to your next appointment
- Use orthodontic wax to cover any sharp edges that might irritate your cheek
- Continue wearing your rubber bands if you can do so comfortably
Poking or Protruding Wires
When wires shift or break, they can create uncomfortable (and sometimes painful) pokes against your cheeks or gums.
- Try gently pushing the wire back into place with the eraser end of a pencil
- If that doesn't work, cover the end with orthodontic wax (keep a supply on hand)
- Rinse with warm salt water if the area becomes irritated
Lost Rubber Bands or Ligatures
Those tiny rubber bands do important work, but losing one here and there isn't catastrophic. Simply replace them if you have extras, or wait until your next appointment if you don't. Continue wearing any remaining rubber bands as directed.
When to Call Your Aurora Orthodontic Office
A simple rule to remember is: when in doubt, call. Your orthodontic team would much rather answer a quick question than have you suffer through unnecessary discomfort or worry.
- You're experiencing severe pain
- You have signs of infection
- You've suffered trauma to your mouth or face
- You're unsure how to handle a situation safely
- Something just doesn't feel right
Have an Orthodontic Emergency in Aurora, CO?
Orthodontic emergencies rarely impact treatment timelines significantly. The most important thing is to stay calm and take appropriate action. You can manage many issues at home until you can see our dentist. Don't hesitate to contact Baller Dental & Ortho at Southlands. Dr. Holly Baller and our experienced team are here to help you navigate any bumps in the road and keep your treatment on track.