Mack Orthodontics is serious when it comes to helping you and your family start loving your smile, and nothing puts a damper on that smile like an unexpected orthodontic issue. The good news? True orthodontic emergencies are rare. Still, when something unexpected does pop up, Dr. Mack and the team are here to help you through orthodontic emergencies and get you back on track quickly and comfortably.
What Counts as an Orthodontic Emergency?
Whether it’s a loose wire or a broken bracket, knowing how to handle an orthodontic emergency at home and when to call us can make a big difference in keeping your treatment on track. Let’s walk through what qualifies as an emergency, what you can do in the moment, and how our team can support you.
Not every discomfort during orthodontic treatment is a true emergency, but there are a few situations that call for prompt attention.
Broken Brackets or Bands
Brackets can sometimes become loose due to eating sticky or hard foods, trauma to the mouth, or general wear. While a broken bracket might not always hurt, it can delay treatment if not repaired.
If your bracket is still attached to the wire and not causing discomfort, leave it in place and call our office for a repair appointment. If it’s hanging or poking the inside of your cheek, you can use orthodontic wax to hold it in place temporarily. Either way, be sure to let us know as soon as possible so we can schedule a quick fix.
Poking or Loose Wires
A common annoyance during braces treatment is wires that poke the cheeks or gums. This can happen as your teeth shift or if a wire comes loose. If this occurs, try gently bending the wire back with a clean pencil eraser or applying orthodontic wax over the tip for relief.
Never cut a wire yourself unless instructed to do so—especially if you’re unable to reach us right away. Instead, call the office and we’ll guide you through safe steps or schedule an emergency appointment.
Managing Discomfort at Home
Not all issues require an immediate visit, and some can be handled with simple at-home solutions until you’re able to see us.
Soreness or Pressure After Adjustments
It’s normal to feel some discomfort after getting braces placed or following an adjustment. This soreness typically fades within a few days. To ease discomfort, we recommend:
- Taking over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen
- Eating soft foods (think smoothies, yogurt, or mashed potatoes)
- Using warm saltwater rinses to soothe sore gums
If soreness lasts more than a few days or seems to worsen, don’t hesitate to contact our office.
Swollen or Irritated Gums
Gums may swell or feel tender if food is trapped around braces or if oral hygiene slips a bit. Be sure to brush thoroughly—especially around brackets and wires—and use a floss threader or water flosser to keep your gums healthy.
If swelling persists, it could be a sign of inflammation or early gum issues, and we’ll want to take a look. Our team can help identify the cause and offer tips to prevent future irritation.
When to Call Mack Orthodontics Immediately
While most orthodontic problems aren’t emergencies, there are a few rare situations where urgent care is required.
Severe Pain or Injury to the Mouth
If you or your child experiences trauma to the mouth, like from a fall, accident, or sports injury, contact our office right away. If a tooth has been knocked loose or if there’s bleeding that won’t stop, you may also need to visit your general dentist or an emergency room first.
We work closely with dental professionals in the community and can coordinate care to get you the help you need fast. Once your immediate health is taken care of, we’ll assess your orthodontic appliances and make any necessary repairs.
Appliance That’s Ingested or Inhaled
Though extremely rare, if a piece of your braces or orthodontic appliance comes off and is accidentally swallowed or inhaled, seek medical attention immediately. Afterward, contact our office so we can examine your braces and replace any missing components safely.
How to Prevent Orthodontic Emergencies
While not every problem is avoidable, a few good habits can go a long way in preventing many common orthodontic issues.
Watch What You Eat
Sticky, chewy, and crunchy foods are some of the top culprits behind broken brackets and bent wires. Try to avoid:
- Caramel and chewing gum
- Hard nuts and candies
- Crunchy chips or popcorn kernels
- Biting directly into hard fruits like apples or carrots (cut them into pieces instead!)
Sticking to braces-friendly foods helps protect your appliance and keeps your treatment moving forward on schedule.
Maintain Excellent Oral Hygiene
Brushing and flossing thoroughly—especially around brackets and wires—reduces the risk of swelling, gum irritation, and cavities. Don’t forget to use fluoride toothpaste and rinse with water after meals if brushing isn’t immediately possible.
Our team is always happy to walk you through proper hygiene techniques and recommend tools like interdental brushes or water flossers for hard-to-reach spots.
We’re Just a Call Away When You Need Us
At Mack Orthodontics, we understand that things don’t always go according to plan, but that’s why we’re here. Whether you’re dealing with a minor irritation or something more urgent, you’ll never be left to figure it out alone.
Our team is ready to talk you through quick fixes, offer peace of mind, and schedule same-day appointments when necessary. We’re here to help you stay comfortable, confident, and on track for your best smile yet.
Contact Mack Orthodontics for Expert Emergency Support
If you’re dealing with an orthodontic issue—big or small—don’t wait to reach out. At Mack Orthodontics, our team is here to answer your questions and provide the care you need when it matters most.
Contact us today and let us help you get back to smiling, worry-free. And remember, your consultation is always free at our Burlington or Hillsborough office, so there’s no reason to put off the smile of your dreams.