Emergency Care
Orthodontic emergencies are uncommon, but they can happen from time to time. Whether it’s an issue with your braces or an injury to your mouth, our team at Bernhardt & Smith Orthodontics is here to help you stay comfortable and keep your treatment on track.
Most orthodontic emergencies fall into two main categories: issues with appliances and direct injuries to the mouth or teeth.
What Should I Do If I Have an Issue with My Braces?
Occasionally, brackets, bands, or wires may become loose, bent, or cause irritation. While these situations are usually not urgent, it’s important to contact our office so we can schedule a repair appointment during patient hours.
To best serve all patients, we are unable to accommodate walk-in emergency visits, so please call ahead to schedule.
How Can I Manage Discomfort at Home?
Until we are able to see you, there are a few simple ways to manage common orthodontic issues safely at home.
If a wire or tie is irritating your mouth, you can cover the area with orthodontic wax or gently tuck it under the archwire using a clean pencil eraser or Q-tip.
If a bracket or band becomes loose, it can usually remain in place temporarily. Avoid touching or playing with it and contact our office so we can repair it if needed.
If a wire is poking or causing discomfort, you may try to carefully bend it back into place using a pencil eraser. In some cases, the end of the wire can be trimmed with sanitized nail clippers if necessary. If the issue continues, please call our office.
What Should I Do If I Have an Injury to My Mouth or Teeth?
If you experience a direct injury to your mouth, whether or not you are currently in orthodontic treatment, it’s important to act quickly.
Apply ice to the affected area to reduce swelling, and contact your general dentist as soon as possible. Injuries such as chipped, displaced, or knocked-out teeth require immediate attention from your dentist, who has the necessary equipment and anesthesia for treatment.
If your orthodontic appliances have been damaged as a result of the injury, contact our office after seeing your dentist so we can repair or adjust them as needed.
What If I Have an Emergency After Office Hours?
If you are experiencing significant discomfort outside of regular office hours, please contact our office. You will be provided with instructions on how to reach the appropriate contact for further assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Orthodontic emergencies can be stressful, especially when you’re unsure whether an issue requires immediate attention. Here are answers to some of the most common questions patients ask about emergency orthodontic care, damaged appliances, and injuries involving braces or aligners.
Is a Loose Bracket an Orthodontic Emergency?
In most cases, a loose bracket is not considered a true orthodontic emergency. If the bracket remains attached to the wire, leave it in place and contact our office to schedule a repair appointment. Avoid playing with the bracket to prevent further damage.
What Should I Do If a Wire Is Poking My Cheek or Gums?
If a wire is causing irritation, you can cover it with orthodontic wax or carefully reposition it using a clean pencil eraser or cotton swab. If discomfort continues, contact our office for further guidance.
Can I Go to School or Work with a Broken Braces Appliance?
Yes, most patients can continue their normal activities until they are able to visit our office. If the appliance is causing discomfort, use orthodontic wax and contact us to schedule a repair.
What Should I Do If I Knock Out or Injure a Tooth?
If a tooth is chipped, displaced, or knocked out, contact your general dentist immediately. Your dentist is best equipped to manage dental trauma. If your braces or orthodontic appliances are damaged during the injury, contact our office after receiving dental care.
Do You Provide Emergency Orthodontic Care in West Des Moines?
Yes. Bernhardt & Smith Orthodontics provides emergency orthodontic care for patients in West Des Moines and surrounding communities. If you experience a problem with your braces, aligners, or orthodontic appliances, contact our office so we can help determine the next steps and schedule any necessary repairs.