Emergency Care
Orthodontic emergencies are uncommon, but they can happen during treatment. Dr. Doug Palaganas and the team at Dr. Doug Orthodontics are here to help guide you through unexpected situations and keep your care safe, comfortable, and on track.
Knowing how to respond to common orthodontic issues can reduce discomfort and prevent minor problems from becoming more serious.
What Types of Orthodontic Emergencies Can Occur?
Dental emergencies during orthodontic treatment generally fall into two categories: issues related to orthodontic appliances and direct injuries to the mouth or teeth.
What Should I Do If an Orthodontic Appliance Breaks or Becomes Irritating?
Occasionally, brackets, bands, or wires may loosen or break during treatment. If you notice any discomfort or damage, please call our office to schedule an emergency appointment. For the comfort of all patients, emergency visits cannot be handled on a walk-in basis.
Until you are seen, these tips may help manage the issue:
- If a tie wire is irritating your mouth, cover it with orthodontic wax or gently tuck it under the archwire using a pencil eraser or cotton swab.
- A loose band or bracket can often remain in place temporarily. Please contact our office so we can determine if reattachment is needed.
- A broken or poking wire may be gently bent inward with a pencil eraser. In some cases, nail clippers can be used carefully to trim the wire.
- If you are unsure whether an issue requires an immediate visit, you may take a photo of the area and email it to info@drdougortho.com for guidance.
A video on this page also demonstrates how to safely manage common orthodontic appliance issues at home.
What Should I Do If There Is a Direct Injury to the Mouth or Teeth?
If you experience a direct injury to your mouth or teeth, whether or not you are currently in orthodontic treatment, apply ice to the affected area immediately and contact your general dentist as soon as possible.
If a tooth has been displaced, fractured, or knocked out, your family dentist is best equipped to provide initial care, including X-rays or anesthesia if needed. After the injury has been evaluated and discomfort has improved, please contact our office so we can adjust or repair any orthodontic appliances.
What If an Orthodontic Emergency Happens After Office Hours?
If you experience pain or an urgent orthodontic issue after office hours, please call our office and leave a detailed voicemail. Messages are checked regularly, and we will return your call as soon as possible to provide guidance.