Managing Orthodontic Emergencies: What Patients Should Know
Orthodontic emergencies are uncommon, but they can happen whether you’re in braces, clear aligners, or wearing an orthodontic appliance. Most issues are minor and manageable at home, but your comfort matters to us. We’ve put together a simple guide to help you handle the most common situations until we can see you. If you’re ever unsure about what to do, you can text or call our office and we’ll be happy to help.
Braces & Appliance Emergencies
Braces and appliances may occasionally cause irritation or become loose. Here’s what to do if it happens at home.
1. Pokey Wire
If a wire is poking:
Gently push it in with a cotton swab or the eraser end of a pencil.
If it can’t be adjusted comfortably, place orthodontic wax over the area to reduce irritation.
In certain cases, you can carefully clip the wire with clean nail clippers. Hold onto the cut piece with tissue or gauze so it doesn’t fall into the mouth.
Contact our office so we can check and correct it.
2. Broken Bracket
Brackets can come loose from sticky, chewy, or hard foods.
If the bracket is still on the wire, leave it in place.
You may place wax over the bracket if it’s irritating your cheek or lips.
Contact us to schedule a repair so treatment stays on track.
3. Dislodged Elastic or Ligature
These small elastics or wires hold the main wire to each bracket.
If one comes off, it’s usually not an emergency and can wait until your next visit.
If it causes discomfort or interferes with your treatment, reach out so we can advise whether an earlier appointment is needed.
4. Loose Appliance (such as an expander)
If any part of your appliance feels loose or detached:
Contact our office right away so we can determine whether immediate attention is needed.
5. Broken or Lost Retainer
If your retainer breaks or goes missing:
Contact us immediately so we can replace it before teeth begin shifting.
Remember: retainers must be worn every night to maintain your smile. Teeth naturally want to move back to their original positions without nightly wear.
Clear Aligner Emergencies
While clear aligners are generally low-maintenance, occasional issues can arise. Most can be handled at home until we see you.
1. Lost or Damaged Aligners
If you lose an aligner, move ahead to your next set only if it fits well and feels snug. If you damage an aligner and still have your previous set, wear the previous trays and contact our office so we can guide you on the best next step.
Tip: Always keep your last set of trays as a backup.
2. Rough Edges or Sharp Spots
Occasionally an aligner may have a rough area.
What to do:
Use a clean nail file to gently smooth the edge. If it continues to bother you, bring it in so we can adjust it.
3. Attachments or Buttons Coming Off
If an attachment or button comes loose:
What to do:
This is not an emergency. Continue wearing your aligners as directed and contact our office so we can schedule a quick visit to replace it.
4. Aligner Not Tracking Properly
If your aligner isn’t fully seating or is lifting in one area:
What to do:
Use chewies to apply firm, even pressure. Ensure you’re wearing your aligners 22 hours a day. If tracking doesn’t improve after a few days, we may need to rescan for a refinement.
When to Contact Our Office
Reach out to us if:
You break or lose an aligner or retainer
A tray or wire won’t seat or feel right
A wire, bracket, or appliance is causing significant discomfort
You notice trauma, swelling, or anything out of the ordinary
We’re here to support you throughout your treatment and help keep your smile journey on track. Let us know anytime you have questions or concerns.