Getting orthodontic treatment is a thrilling move towards getting a healthy, beautiful smile with plenty of confidence; however, like anything else involving brackets, wires, or other dental appliances, problems can arise. Most orthodontic emergencies are completely manageable, though. When you know what to do in such an event, you can keep calm and comfortable until your dentist can see you.
At Dr. Dona Seely Orthodontics, we want every patient to feel supported, whether they’re in the office or at home. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the most common orthodontic emergencies in Bellevue, WA, how to handle them, and when it’s important to reach out for help.
What Counts as an Orthodontic Emergency?
While some issues related to braces or aligners may require emergency care, many are typically not viewed this way. The majority of these types of problems can be handled on your own until you see your orthodontist for a more permanent solution. Anytime you are uncertain, please consult with or contact your local orthodontist for assistance.
We've divided the various issues into the following categories:
True Orthodontic Emergencies
These situations require immediate professional attention:
- Severe mouth or facial injury affecting your braces or teeth
- Uncontrolled bleeding
- Intense pain that doesn’t improve with home care
- A broken appliance causing injury to the cheeks or gums
- Swelling or signs of infection around the mouth
If you experience any of the above, contact Dr. Dona Seely Orthodontics right away.
Minor—but Common—Orthodontic Issues
These are uncomfortable but not dangerous:
- Loose brackets
- Pokey wires
- Lost elastics or ligatures
- Mild soreness after adjustments
- Irritated cheeks or lips
- Cracked or lost aligners
Common Orthodontic Emergencies & What To Do
1. Loose or Broken Bracket
A bracket may come loose if you bite into something too hard or if the adhesive weakens over time. If the bracket is still attached to the wire:
- Leave it in place if it’s not hurting.
- Use orthodontic wax to prevent rubbing.
- Avoid touching or pulling on it.
If the bracket fully detaches:
- Save it and bring it to your next visit.
Call your orthodontist in Bellevue to schedule a repair. This isn’t urgent, but you shouldn’t wait too long.
2. Pokey or Protruding Wire
A wire slipping out of place is one of the most common orthodontic issues and can irritate your cheeks or gums.
Temporary fixes:
- Slide the wire back with a clean cotton swab.
- Trim the end using a clean pair of nail clippers if the wire is extremely uncomfortable.
- Cover the area with orthodontic wax until your visit.
If homemade solutions don’t help, reach out to an orthodontist near you for a quick fix.
3. Soreness After Tightening or New Appliances
Some discomfort is normal for the first few days after an adjustment.
To relieve soreness:
- Eat soft foods like soup, pasta, yogurt, or mashed potatoes.
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers if needed.
- Use warm salt-water rinses to soothe irritated tissues.
This should improve within 48–72 hours.
4. Irritation from Braces
The inside of your cheeks and lips may become sore, especially when braces are new.
Try these comfort tips:
- Use orthodontic wax to cover sharp areas.
- Rinse with warm salt water.
- Apply a bit of dental silicone or sugar-free gum to reduce friction in a pinch.
If irritation continues or worsens, your orthodontist can smooth any sharp edges.
5. Lost Rubber Band, Elastic, or Ligature
This is not an emergency, but it should be corrected soon to keep your treatment moving.
Call the office, and we’ll schedule a quick repair or tell you if you can wait until your next visit.
6. Aligners Cracked or Lost (Invisalign & Clear Aligners)
If you’re wearing clear aligners, accidents can happen: pets chew them, they fall on the floor, or they crack during chewing.
What to do:
- If cracked but still wearable, continue using them.
- If completely broken or lost, move to the previous or next aligner if advised.
- Always contact Dr. Dona Seely Orthodontics for instructions to avoid delaying progress.
How to Prevent Orthodontic Emergencies
While accidents can happen, many issues are preventable with good habits.
Smart Prevention Tips
- Avoid sticky, chewy, and hard foods like caramel, popcorn, and ice.
- Wear a mouthguard during sports.
- Brush and floss regularly to prevent irritation and infection.
- Handle clear aligners gently; never force them in place.
- Follow instructions for elastics, appliances, or expanders to avoid breakage.
Taking a little extra care can dramatically reduce unexpected visits.
When to Call Your Orthodontist
If you’re ever unsure about what you’re experiencing, don’t hesitate to contact an orthodontist in Bellevue. We encourage patients to call when:
- Pain doesn’t improve with home remedies
- A bracket is completely off
- A wire is poking and can’t be fixed at home
- An appliance breaks or feels unstable
- Something doesn’t “feel right” with your bite or braces
- Aligners stop fitting properly
Your comfort is important, and our team is always ready to help.
Why Choose Dr. Dona Seely Orthodontics in Bellevue, WA?
Orthodontic emergencies can be stressful, but you’re never alone. With the right steps and a reliable orthodontic team, you can handle most issues quickly and safely. Whether you’re dealing with pokey wires, loose brackets, or aligner mishaps, Dr. Dona Seely Orthodontics is here to help you get back on track with confidence.
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