Emergency Orthodontic Care: What To Do When Something Goes Wrong With Your Braces
Orthodontic treatment is designed to be smooth and predictable, but let’s be real, sometimes things don’t go exactly as planned. A wire pops out. A bracket loosens. An aligner disappears into thin air (or worse, the trash can at lunch). While these moments can feel stressful, the truth is, most orthodontic emergencies in Freeport IL or Monroe WI are easy to manage, and we’re here to walk you through them.
If you’re wondering what qualifies as an emergency, what you can do at home, and when to call your orthodontist at Walker & Wright Orthodontics, keep reading. This guide is here to help you stay calm, stay informed, and stay on track.
What Counts as an Orthodontic Emergency?
The word “emergency” sounds serious—and sometimes it is. But in the orthodontic world, it often just means something needs to be checked or fixed soon to prevent discomfort or treatment delays.
Here’s a quick breakdown.
Urgent (But Not Dangerous)
- A bracket comes loose
- A wire is poking your cheek or gums
- A rubber band or spacer falls off
- Your aligner cracks or goes missing
- Your retainer feels warped or doesn’t fit properly
These aren’t life-threatening, but they do require follow-up so your treatment stays on track.
True Emergencies (Call Us or Seek Help Right Away)
- Trauma to your face, mouth, or jaw
- Excessive bleeding
- Intense pain or swelling
- A wire or part of an appliance is lodged in your gums or throat
- A broken appliance is causing a wound that cannot be safely removed
If you're in serious pain or unsure if it’s an emergency, don’t hesitate to call us. When in doubt, we’d always rather you reach out than wait.
Common Issues and Quick Fixes
Not every orthodontic hiccup needs a same-day appointment. In fact, you can often manage things at home until we can see you.
Loose Bracket
Still attached to the wire? Leave it in place and cover it with orthodontic wax. If it detaches completely, bring it with you to your next visit.Poking Wire
Gently push it flat against the tooth with a clean cotton swab or pencil eraser. Then cover it with wax to prevent irritation.Lost Aligner or Retainer
Go back to your previous tray to hold things in place until we advise you. If that’s not available, call us—we’ll get you a replacement ASAP.Soreness or Irritation
Minor soreness is common after adjustments. Stick to soft foods and use over-the-counter pain relievers as directed. Rinsing with warm salt water can help soothe sore spots.
When to Call Your Orthodontist
If you’re not in serious pain but something feels off, it’s a good idea to give us a call. We’ll let you know whether you can wait until your next appointment or if we need to get you in sooner.
We also recommend calling if:
- Something is affecting your ability to eat, speak, or sleep
- You’re unsure how to handle an issue at home
- You’ve had a recent injury that may have affected your braces or aligners
- You’re worried about progress due to a broken appliance
Preventing Future Issues
Orthodontic emergencies can be minimized with a little extra care. Here’s how to avoid the most common problems:
- Avoid sticky or hard foods that can damage brackets and wires
- Don’t chew on pens, fingernails, or ice
- Wear a mouthguard during sports or physical activity
- Keep aligners and retainers in a case—not napkins or your pocket
- Follow your orthodontist’s care instructions closely
A few smart habits now can save you time and discomfort later.
We're Here for the Unexpected
Whether it’s a simple fix or something more urgent, we’re your first call when something goes wrong. Our goal is to keep your treatment comfortable, efficient, and on schedule—even when surprises happen.
Have an orthodontic emergency? Don’t wait. Contact one of our offices and we’ll guide you through the next step—fast.
