Why You Should Never Ignore an Orthodontic Emergency: Visit Your Orthodontist Immediately

Whether you're wearing braces, aligners, or other appliances, orthodontic emergencies can strike unexpectedly. Many people assume that discomfort or damage can be handled later, but that delay can lead to serious consequences. Ignoring an orthodontic issue might seem harmless at first, but it can lead to treatment delays, more pain, and even permanent dental damage. 

In this blog, we'll explain what constitutes an orthodontic emergency, what can happen if you ignore it, and why contacting your orthodontist immediately is always the best course of action. 

What Is an Orthodontic Emergency? 

Orthodontic emergencies involve any unexpected problem with your braces, aligners, or other dental appliances that causes pain, affects your ability to eat or speak, or threatens the progress of your treatment. These are more than just annoyances. They signal that something has gone wrong and needs to be addressed promptly. 

Signs of common orthodontic emergencies include: 

• Broken Brackets or Bands: These can shift and cause damage to the inside of your mouth or stop tooth movement altogether. 
• Poking Wires: Wires that slip out of place can jab your cheeks, lips, or gums, causing bleeding or painful sores. 
• Loose Appliances: Retainers or spacers that fall out or no longer fit properly may hinder your treatment. 
• Severe Mouth Sores or Ulcers: Often caused by constant rubbing from wires or brackets, these can become infected if not treated. 
• Swelling or Inflammation: This may indicate an infection beneath the gums or around a tooth. 
• Trauma to the Mouth: If you fall, are hit in the face, or experience any impact while wearing orthodontic devices, your appliance may be damaged, and your teeth could shift or fracture. 

Consequences of Ignoring an Orthodontic Emergency 

Failing to act promptly in an orthodontic emergency can have significant short- and long-term consequences, both physically and financially. 

1. Delayed Treatment Progress 

Braces and aligners work on a tight, controlled timeline. A single broken bracket can stop a tooth from moving correctly, stalling your treatment plan. Over time, this may mean additional months or even years before your teeth reach their ideal position. 

2. Increased Pain or Discomfort 

A poking wire or loose appliance might feel minor at first, but constant friction can quickly lead to irritation, swelling, and even open wounds inside your mouth. What could've been a simple adjustment may turn into an infection if ignored. 

3. Damage to Teeth and Gums 

Appliances that are not properly secured can shift, putting unnecessary pressure on certain teeth. This can cause root damage, enamel erosion, or even misalignment. Additionally, open sores from untreated injuries can make the gums more susceptible to disease. 

4. Higher Treatment Costs 

What starts as a small issue can snowball into a major repair. Delaying care can lead to the need for replacement brackets, emergency adjustments, or even restorative dental work, all of which can drive up costs and prolong your treatment. 

When to Seek Immediate Care? 

If it hurts, causes swelling, or affects how your appliance fits, call your orthodontist. 

You should reach out right away if you experience: 

• Persistent, Intense Pain: Sharp or throbbing pain that doesn't improve with OTC medication may signal an underlying problem. 
• Uncontrolled Bleeding: Especially after trauma or injury to the mouth. 
• Protruding Wires: Especially if they are cutting or irritating your cheeks and lips. 
• Lost or Swallowed Appliance Parts: Although rare, this is a potentially dangerous situation that requires immediate evaluation. 
• Allergic Reaction to Materials: Redness, swelling, or itching after appliance adjustment may indicate an allergy to metal or latex. 

If you're unsure whether your problem qualifies as an emergency, call your orthodontist's office for guidance. Many practices have an emergency number or on-call support. 

What to Do Before Calling Your Orthodontist?  

While you're waiting to be seen, you can take a few safe, temporary measures to protect your mouth and reduce pain. 

Here's what you can do: 

Orthodontic Wax: Available at pharmacies, this wax can be placed over sharp wires or broken brackets to prevent them from cutting into your mouth. 

Cold Compress: If you notice swelling, apply a cold pack to the outside of your cheek in 15-minute intervals to reduce inflammation. 

Saltwater Rinse: Swish with a warm saltwater solution to soothe irritated tissues and reduce bacteria. 

Avoid Hard or Sticky Foods: Stick to soft, easy-to-chew options to avoid further damaging your appliance. 

Avoid DIY fixes. Avoid using super glue, wire cutters, or pliers to attempt to fix the problem yourself, as this can worsen the situation and make it more difficult for your orthodontist to repair it. 

Why Professional Intervention Is Essential 

Orthodontists are trained to handle emergencies quickly and safely. They have the tools, materials, and expertise to correct problems without risking your progress or your health. 

When you report an emergency, your orthodontist will: 

• Conduct an assessment (in person or virtually) to understand the urgency of the situation. 
• Offer guidance over the phone for immediate comfort. 
• Repair or replace the damaged component of your braces or aligners. 
• Adjust your treatment plan if any delays occur due to the emergency. 

Most orthodontic practices are equipped to offer same-day or next-day emergency appointments, so never hesitate to call. 

Habits That Reduce Your Risk of an Emergency 

While not all emergencies can be prevented, you can significantly reduce your risk with some simple, consistent practices. 

Preventive tips include: 

• Follow food guidelines carefully: Avoid popcorn, nuts, chewy candy, ice, and hard foods that can snap wires or dislodge brackets. 
• Wear a mouthguard during sports: Even for non-contact sports like basketball, a custom orthodontic mouthguard can protect your teeth and appliances. 
• Practice excellent oral hygiene: Brushing and flossing carefully can prevent infections or buildup that might cause irritation or pain. 
• Attend all scheduled appointments: Regular check-ins allow your orthodontist to catch small issues before they become emergencies. 
• Communicate early: If something feels off—even slightly—contact your orthodontist before it becomes a full-blown problem.

Dr. Hoss Abar Is Here When You Need to Help the Most 

Orthodontic emergencies can feel overwhelming, but with the right care, they don’t have to derail your treatment or your peace of mind. At Abar Orthodontics, Dr. Hoss Abar and his experienced team take every emergency seriously. Whether it’s a broken bracket, a poking wire, or sudden discomfort, you can count on compassionate, same-day care that gets you back on track quickly and safely. 

Dr. Abar is recognized for his gentle approach, personalized treatment, and prompt response to patient needs, especially in urgent situations. With advanced tools and years of expertise, he ensures that emergencies are handled efficiently, minimizing pain and protecting your smile’s progress. 

Contact your Pinole dentist, Dr. Hoss Abar, DDS, MSD at Abar Orthodontics, to learn more about Why You Should Never Ignore an Orthodontic Emergency?

Resource:

Orthodontic Preparation for Surgery

*This media/content or any other on this website does not prescribe, recommend, or prevent any treatment or procedure. Therefore, we highly suggest that you get the advice of a qualified dentist or other medical practitioners regarding your specific dental condition.*