Emergency Care
Orthodontic emergencies are rare, but they can happen. At Beaverton Orthodontics, Dr. Song and our team are here to help if you experience discomfort, a broken appliance, or any urgent concern during treatment.
If you are experiencing severe pain, trauma, or a medical emergency, please contact your general dentist or seek immediate medical attention. For all orthodontic emergencies in Beaverton, OR, contact our office and we will guide you on the next steps.
What Emergencies Are Related to Orthodontic Appliances?
Sometimes braces or orthodontic appliances may become loose, bent, or uncomfortable. Most issues can be temporarily managed at home until your scheduled repair visit.
Loose Band or Loose Bracket
If a band or bracket becomes loose, it can usually remain in place until your appointment. Please call our office during patient hours when you notice the issue so we can schedule a repair if necessary.
Irritating Tie Wire
If a tie wire is irritating your cheek or gums, cover the area with orthodontic beeswax. You may also gently tuck the wire under the archwire using a blunt object such as a pencil eraser or cotton swab.
Broken or Poking Archwire
If an archwire is poking or causing discomfort, you may carefully use a pencil eraser to bend it inward. In some cases, it may be trimmed carefully with clean nail clippers. If the problem is not resolved or discomfort continues, please contact our office during patient hours.
Direct Injuries to the Mouth or Teeth
If you experience a direct injury to your mouth or teeth, immediately apply ice to reduce swelling and contact your general dentist as soon as possible. An X-ray is often needed to evaluate the extent of the injury.
If a tooth has been displaced, fractured, or knocked out, your family dentist should be contacted first, as they are best equipped to manage these injuries.
After your dentist has evaluated the injury, please contact Beaverton Orthodontics if your braces or appliances have been dislodged or damaged. We will schedule a visit to adjust or replace the appliance as needed.
After Office Hours
If an orthodontic emergency occurs after hours and the patient is experiencing pain, please call our office. Instructions will be available regarding who to contact for further assistance.
For severe trauma, uncontrolled bleeding, or medical emergencies, seek immediate medical attention.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you experience an issue with your braces or aligners, you may have questions about what to do next. Below are answers to common orthodontic emergency concerns.
How Do I Know If My Orthodontic Issue Needs Immediate Attention?
If you are experiencing significant pain, swelling, bleeding, or trauma to the face or teeth, contact our office right away. Most minor appliance issues can safely wait for a scheduled visit.
Should I Schedule An Appointment If A Bracket Or Band Comes Loose?
Yes. Even if it is not painful, a loose bracket or band can delay treatment progress. Call our office so we can determine the appropriate timing for repair.
What Can I Do At Home To Relieve Discomfort From Braces?
Mild soreness after adjustments is normal. Soft foods, orthodontic wax, and over-the-counter pain relievers can help during the first few days.
If My Aligner Or Retainer Cracks, What Should I Do?
Continue wearing it if possible and contact our office promptly. We will advise whether to move to the next aligner or schedule a replacement.
Will An Orthodontic Emergency Set Back My Treatment?
Most minor issues do not significantly delay treatment when addressed promptly. The key is contacting our office as soon as you notice a problem.