Orthodontic Emergency Info: Quick Solutions for Common Issues
We’re Here to Help with Orthodontic Emergencies
At Impact Orthodontics, we know that unexpected issues can happen during orthodontic treatment.
The good news?
Most orthodontic emergencies aren’t true emergencies and can be managed at home until your next appointment.
This page will guide you through quick fixes for common problems. If you’re unsure or need immediate assistance, call our office at 403-256-7797. For visual step-by-step instructions, check out our YouTube Channel for helpful videos!
Quick Links to Common Orthodontic Emergencies
Aligners: Common Issues & Solutions
What to Do:
- If you’ve lost or broken your aligner, try to move to the next aligner in your series if it fits comfortably.
- If the next aligner doesn’t fit, wear the previous one to maintain tooth position.
- Call or text us at 403-256-7797, or message us in your messaging app to arrange a replacement or get advice on how to proceed.
Sharp or Poking Aligners
What to Do:
- Use a nail file or emery board to gently smooth out sharp edges.
- Apply orthodontic wax over the rough spot to prevent irritation.
- If discomfort continues, contact our office for further help.
Button or Attachment Came Off
What to Do:
- If a button or attachment falls off, continue wearing your aligners if they still fit properly.
- Call or text us at 403-256-7797, or message us in your messaging app to get advice on how to proceed. While this isn’t an urgent issue, it’s important to fix it (if the doctor deems it necessary) to keep your treatment on track.
Braces: Common Issues & Solutions
Loose or Broken Brackets
What to Do:
- If the bracket is still attached to the wire, leave it in place and cover it with orthodontic wax to prevent irritation.
- If the bracket comes completely off, save it and bring it to your next appointment.
- Call or text us at 403-256-7797, or message us in your monitoring app to determine if it needs to be repaired sooner.
Poking Wires
What to Do:
- Use a cotton swab or pencil eraser to gently push the wire back into place.
- Cover the sharp end with orthodontic wax to prevent discomfort.
- If the wire is too long and causing pain, you can carefully trim it with sterilized nail clippers or wire cutters.
- Contact us if you need assistance or if the issue persists. You can call or text us at 403-256-7797 or message us in your monitoring app.
Appliances (e.g., Expanders): Common Issues & Solutions
Loose, Uncomfortable, or Fallen Out Appliance
What to Do:
- If the appliance is loose but still attached, avoid activating or adjusting it further. Call or text our office for guidance.
- If the appliance falls out completely, save it, let us know it fell out, and bring it to your next appointment.
- For discomfort, rinse with warm salt water and apply wax to any sharp or irritating areas.
- If the appliance is affecting your child’s ability to eat, speak, or breathe, contact us immediately at 403-256-7797.
When to Contact Us Immediately
While most orthodontic issues can be managed at home, please contact us immediately if:
- Your child is experiencing severe pain that doesn’t improve with at-home care.
- There are signs of infection, such as swelling, fever, or bleeding around braces or appliances.
- An appliance issue is affecting your child’s ability to eat, speak, or breathe.
For urgent concerns, call 403-256-7797. For after-hours emergencies, follow the prompts to reach our on-call orthodontist.
Watch Our YouTube Channel for Quick Fixes!
For easy-to-follow video instructions on common orthodontic issues, check out our YouTube Channel. We cover:
- How to apply orthodontic wax
- How to trim a poking wire
- What to do if an aligner cracks
- And more!
Orthodontic Emergencies
Frequently Asked Questions
What if my child swallows a piece of their braces or appliance?
Most small pieces will pass naturally without causing harm. However, if your child is having difficulty breathing or you’re concerned, seek immediate medical attention.
Can my child continue their treatment if an attachment or bracket falls off?
Yes, but you should contact us to see if and when a repair is needed. Leaving it untreated may slow down progress.
My child is in pain—is this normal?
Some discomfort is normal after adjustments, but severe or ongoing pain isn’t. Call, text or message our office if your child’s pain doesn’t improve with over-the-counter pain relief and/or their Dental Pain Eraser.
For any orthodontic concerns, we’re here to help! Contact us at 403-256-7797 (call or text), message us in your monitoring app, or visit our YouTube Channel for quick solutions.
