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Orthodontic emergencies.
Real orthodontic emergencies are rare. Most issues can be managed at home until your next appointment, or with a quick call. Here's the field guide.
What counts as an orthodontic emergency
Most orthodontic problems are uncomfortable rather than urgent. A poking wire, a loose bracket, or a lost aligner can usually wait until the next business day, and we will tell you how to make it comfortable tonight. Call (904) 215-0980 for trauma to the teeth or jaw, or for swelling.
Field guide
Six common issues.
If your situation isn’t below, or you’re unsure, call. We’d rather hear from you.
Loose bracket
Press orthodontic wax over the bracket so it stops rubbing, and leave the bracket where it is rather than pulling it off. Call us and we will get you in for a repair.Poking wire
Use a pencil eraser to gently push the wire flat against the tooth. If it cannot be moved, cover the end with wax and call us.Mouth sores
Rinse with warm salt water and put wax over whatever bracket or wire is rubbing. A topical oral anaesthetic from the pharmacy will get you through the night.Lost aligner
Call us. Go back to your previous set of aligners in the meantime so your teeth do not drift while you wait for the replacement.Loose band
Keep the band and bring it with you. Call us and we will get it re-cemented before anything shifts.General soreness
Mild soreness after adjustments is normal. Over-the-counter pain medication, soft foods, and warm salt water rinses help. Call us if pain is severe.
When in doubt, call. We’d rather hear from you.