Your Orthodontic Emergency Guide: What to Do and When to Call
Most orthodontic issues aren't true emergencies — but they can definitely be uncomfortable, and it's natural to wonder: should I call the office? Can this wait? What do I do right now?
Here's a practical guide to the most common situations, what you can do at home, and when it's time to reach out to our team.
True Emergencies vs. Minor Issues
First, an important distinction: true orthodontic emergencies are rare. Most situations — a poking wire, a loose bracket, mild soreness — are minor and can be managed at home until your next scheduled appointment or with a quick call to our office.
Call immediately (or seek urgent dental/medical care) if you experience:
Severe pain that doesn't improve with over-the-counter pain relief
Significant swelling, especially if it affects breathing or swallowing
Trauma to the face or mouth (such as from an accident)
A bracket or wire that has caused a deep cut or injury
For everything else, here's how to handle it.
Loose Bracket
What's happening: A bracket has come unglued from the tooth but is still attached to the wire.
What to do:
Leave it in place if possible — it's still doing some work
If it's causing irritation, you can place a small piece of orthodontic wax over it
Avoid eating sticky or hard foods that could dislodge it further
Call our office to schedule a repair — this isn't urgent, but shouldn't be ignored for too long
Poking or Protruding Wire
What's happening: The end of a wire has shifted and is poking your cheek or gum.
What to do:
Try using the eraser end of a pencil to gently push the wire back into place
Cover the end with orthodontic wax to reduce irritation
If the wire cannot be repositioned and is causing significant discomfort, you can carefully clip the end with clean nail clippers — but only as a last resort, and call our office afterward
Lost or Broken Aligner (Invisalign)
What's happening: An aligner is lost, cracked, or damaged.
What to do:
If you still have your previous aligner, wear that temporarily to maintain progress
If you have your next aligner in the series, you can move forward to that one
Contact our office to discuss next steps — we may need to order a replacement
General Soreness After an Adjustment
What's happening: Mild discomfort or tenderness for a day or two after braces are tightened or a new aligner is started.
What to do:
This is completely normal and typically resolves within 2-3 days
Over-the-counter pain relief (like ibuprofen) can help
Stick to soft foods during this time
Rinsing with warm salt water can soothe irritated gums
Something Stuck Between Teeth or in Braces
What's happening: Food is lodged between teeth, wires, or brackets.
What to do:
Rinse thoroughly with warm water
Use a floss threader or interdental brush to gently remove it
Avoid using sharp objects (like a pin or knife) which can damage brackets or injure gums
Lost Retainer
What's happening: A removable retainer has been lost or misplaced.
What to do:
Don't panic, but don't wait too long either — teeth can begin shifting without consistent retainer wear
If you have a previous retainer that still fits, wear it temporarily
Contact our office to discuss a replacement
Broken or Cracked Retainer
What's happening: A retainer has cracked or broken.
What to do:
Stop wearing it if it's sharp or could cut your mouth
Contact our office — depending on the damage, it may be repairable or need replacement
When in Doubt, Call
If you're ever unsure whether something requires attention, it's always better to call than to wait and wonder. Our team can quickly help you determine whether something needs an appointment or can be managed at home until your next visit.
Building Your Orthodontic Emergency Kit
Consider keeping these items on hand at home (and a small version in your bag for on-the-go):
Orthodontic wax
A small mirror
Clean tweezers
A travel toothbrush and floss threaders
Our office's phone number saved in your phone
We're Here When You Need Us
Orthodontic hiccups happen — they're a normal part of treatment, not a sign that something's gone wrong. If you're a current patient experiencing any of the issues above, don't hesitate to reach out to Dr. Lindsay Orthodontics in Weston, FL.
And if you're considering starting treatment and want to know more about what ongoing support looks like, we're happy to answer any questions during a complimentary consultation.
Schedule your free consultation today or contact our office if you're a current patient with a question.
