Emergencies

Handling Orthodontic and Dental Emergencies

Any injury to the teeth or gums can be potentially serious and should not be ignored. Ignoring a dental problem can increase the risk of permanent damage as well as the need for more extensive and expensive treatment down the road. Here's a quick summary of what to do for some common dental problems.

• Broken braces wires
  If a wire breaks or sticks out of a bracket or band and is poking your cheek, tongue or gum, try using the eraser end of a pencil to push the wire into a more comfortable position. If you can't reposition the wire, cover the end with orthodontic wax, a small cotton ball, or piece of gauze until you can get to us. Never cut the wire, as you could end up swallowing it or breathing it into your lungs.
  
  
• Loose brackets and bands
  Place the wax over the braces to provide a cushion. See us as soon as possible. If the problem is a loose band, save it and call us for an appointment to have it recemented or replaced (and to have missing spacers replaced).