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Emergency Orthodontic Care: What to Do When Things Go Wrong

Stay Calm and Smile On—Here’s How to Handle Orthodontic Emergencies

Orthodontic treatment is designed to be smooth and predictable—but occasionally, things don’t go exactly as planned. Whether it’s a broken bracket, poking wire, or lost aligner, knowing how to handle an orthodontic emergency can make all the difference in keeping your treatment on track and avoiding unnecessary discomfort.

At Hansen Orthodontics, we offer emergency orthodontic care in Wichita, Hutchinson, Goddard, and surrounding areas to help you manage unexpected issues quickly and effectively. If something doesn’t feel right, don’t panic—we’re here to help.

What Is Considered an Orthodontic Emergency?

Not all orthodontic issues require immediate attention, but some do need prompt care. Here are the most common types of orthodontic emergencies and how to manage them:

1. Loose or Broken Bracket

What it is: A bracket that detaches from the tooth but remains connected to the wire.

What to do:

  • If it’s not causing discomfort, leave it in place and call our office to schedule a repair.
  • Use orthodontic wax to cover the bracket if it’s irritating the inside of your mouth.

2. Poking Wire

What it is: A wire that has shifted or extended out and is poking your cheek or gums.

What to do:

  • Try using a cotton swab or pencil eraser to gently bend the wire back against the teeth.
  • Apply orthodontic wax over the wire to reduce irritation.
  • If the discomfort continues, contact us for a quick adjustment.

3. Lost or Broken Aligner or Retainer

What it is: An Invisalign aligner, clear retainer, or removable appliance that is misplaced or damaged.

What to do:

  • Move to the next aligner in your series if you’re near the end of your current tray’s wear time.
  • If early in the wear cycle, call us right away so we can order a replacement or advise next steps.
  • Never try to fix or reshape a broken appliance on your own.

4. Mouth Sores or Irritation

What it is: Soreness caused by new appliances or rubbing against soft tissue.

What to do:

  • Use orthodontic wax on rough areas of your brackets or appliances.
  • Rinse with warm salt water to soothe irritation.
  • Apply over-the-counter topical anesthetics like Orajel for temporary relief.

5. Jaw Pain or Severe Discomfort

What it is: Pain that feels more intense than typical soreness after adjustments.

What to do:

  • Use over-the-counter pain relievers (as directed).
  • Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling.
  • If pain persists or worsens, call our office for an evaluation—especially if you suspect a bite issue or appliance malfunction.

When to Call Hansen Orthodontics

We recommend calling us if:

  • A bracket, wire, or appliance breaks or becomes detached
  • A wire is causing pain or cannot be repositioned
  • You’ve lost an aligner, retainer, or spacer
  • You’re experiencing severe discomfort that doesn’t improve
  • You have questions or feel unsure about what to do

Our team will help determine whether you need to come in for an emergency appointment or if the issue can be managed at home until your next visit.

What’s Not an Emergency?

Some discomfort is normal, especially after braces are tightened or when starting a new aligner. The following are not considered emergencies, though they can still be uncomfortable:

  • Mild soreness or tooth sensitivity
  • Minor irritation from brackets or aligners
  • Slight wire movement that isn’t causing pain

These symptoms typically resolve in a few days with at-home care.

How to Prevent Orthodontic Emergencies

While not every issue is avoidable, you can minimize the risk by:

  • Avoiding hard, sticky, or crunchy foods (especially with braces)
  • Wearing your mouthguard during sports or physical activities
  • Following instructions for aligner wear and care
  • Brushing and flossing carefully around appliances to avoid damage
  • Attending all scheduled appointments so we can catch small problems before they become big ones

We’re Here When You Need Us

Orthodontic emergencies can be stressful—but you don’t have to handle them alone. At Hansen Orthodontics, we’re committed to making sure your smile journey stays on track, no matter what surprises come up.

If you’re experiencing a problem with your braces, aligners, or appliance, reach out right away. We’ll walk you through the next steps and schedule an appointment if needed.