Orthodontic treatment is an exciting step toward a healthier, more confident smile, but occasionally, unexpected situations like a broken bracket or poking wire can arise. At Simple Orthodontics, we’ve designed our care to minimize emergencies, but knowing how to handle them can make all the difference in keeping your child comfortable and their treatment on track.
Here are my top tips for managing orthodontic emergencies from the comfort of your home—and when to call for professional help.
1. Broken Brackets
A broken bracket is one of the most common orthodontic issues. It may happen if your child eats hard or sticky foods or from accidental impact during sports.
What to Do:
- If the bracket is still attached to the wire, gently push it back into place and secure it with orthodontic wax to prevent irritation.
- If the bracket has detached entirely, keep it in a safe place and bring it to your next appointment.
- Call our office to determine if immediate repair is necessary or if it can wait until your next scheduled visit.
2. Poking Wires
Sometimes wires can shift and poke the cheeks or gums, causing discomfort.
What to Do:
- Use a clean pair of tweezers to carefully guide the wire back into place if possible.
- Cover the sharp end with orthodontic wax to protect the soft tissues in the mouth.
- If the wire cannot be repositioned or continues to cause pain, call us for guidance.
3. Loose Bands or Wires
Bands or wires may loosen over time or due to improper care.
What to Do:
- If a wire is loose but still attached, try using tweezers to reposition it.
- If it’s completely detached, store it safely and bring it to your next appointment.
- Contact our office for advice on whether immediate attention is needed.
4. Lost or Damaged Elastics
Elastics play a crucial role in correcting jaw alignment, so replacing them promptly is important.
What to Do:
- Always carry extra elastics in case one snaps or gets lost.
- If you run out, let us know, and we’ll provide replacements quickly.
5. General Discomfort or Soreness
It’s normal for your child to experience mild discomfort after adjustments.
What to Do:
- Offer soft foods and over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen if needed.
- Encourage warm saltwater rinses to ease soreness.
- If the discomfort persists or worsens, let us know.
6. Swallowed Appliances
If a small part of the braces becomes loose and is accidentally swallowed, it’s usually harmless but should be monitored.
What to Do:
- Check to see if the piece has been swallowed or inhaled.
- If you suspect inhalation or your child is coughing or having difficulty breathing, seek medical attention immediately.
- Contact us afterward for guidance on replacing the appliance.
7. Preventing Emergencies
Prevention is the best way to avoid orthodontic emergencies. Remind your child to:
- Avoid hard, sticky, or chewy foods.
- Wear a mouthguard during sports.
- Follow oral hygiene routines carefully.
8. When to Call Simple Orthodontics
If you’re unsure how to handle a situation or believe it requires immediate attention, don’t hesitate to call us. Our team is here to support you, offering guidance and care to keep your child’s smile on track.
Your Smile Is Our Priority
At Simple Orthodontics, we strive to make every step of your orthodontic journey as seamless as possible, even during the unexpected. From personalized care to modern technology, we’re dedicated to creating healthy, confident smiles for life.
If you have questions about orthodontic emergencies or need assistance, give our office a call. Together, we’ll tackle any challenge with ease.
