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When orthodontic emergencies happen, we’re here for you

Orthodontic Specialists is ready to help determine if you’re experiencing an orthodontic emergency or a more common issue.

Most orthodontic repairs can wait to be handled at your next regularly scheduled appointment. Other repairs shouldn’t wait and require an immediate appointment or even orthodontic emergency care. We’re always available to help you decide if you’re experiencing an orthodontic emergency. Simply call 720.792.4437 to get in touch with our team.

What is an orthodontic emergency?

Luckily, true orthodontic emergencies are rare, but they’re something that patients may encounter during treatment. Severe concerns may require emergency care and shouldn’t wait. Schedule an emergency orthodontist appointment by calling our office if you experience one of the following:

An injury to your mouth, face, or teeth
Significant pain in your gums, mouth, or face
doctor examining patient

How to handle common issues with braces

Orthodontic inconveniences such as loose bands or brackets, broken or poking arch wires, and general tenderness can typically be managed at home until your next appointment. Some situations like damaged appliances will require a repair visit and may prolong treatment, so taking care of your braces is important. Here are some solutions for common issues you may notice during your orthodontic treatment:

Broken or lost appliances
If any piece of your orthodontic appliance or retainer is broken or lost, call our office for immediate guidance and to schedule a repair appointment. If your appliance is only cracked but not broken, you can continue to wear it.
Loose teeth
If your teeth begin feeling a little loose, don’t be alarmed. This is a perfectly normal part of the straightening process. Braces need to loosen your teeth before shifting them into the correct position. Once your teeth have been repositioned, they will no longer feel loose.
Loose wires and bands
The wires and bands on your braces may sometimes come loose. You can temporarily fix a loose wire by using the eraser end of a pencil to carefully push the wire back into place. If the loose wire is broken or irritating your lips or cheeks, place some wax or sugar-free gum over the wire. Contact us during regular business hours so we can determine if a repair appointment is needed.
Soreness
Your teeth and mouth may feel a bit tender, sore, or irritated during treatment, which is perfectly normal. To help relieve oral tissue discomfort, dissolve one teaspoon of salt in eight ounces of lukewarm water, this will also promote the healing of your mouth. Swish and gargle this solution in your mouth for a few minutes before spitting it out. You can also apply wax to your braces to lessen the irritation, and a pain reliever will help with tooth or jaw aches and pains.
Loose or broken brackets
Experiencing a loose or broken bracket is not uncommon. To remove a broken bracket, you may need to remove the tie or elastic. Keep the bracket in a safe location to bring to your next appointment. If the bracket is not easily removed and is still attached to the wire, use wax to hold the bracket in place and call us to determine if a repair appointment should be scheduled.
Sports injury
If you experience a sports injury, immediately check your mouth for loose teeth or significant damage to your appliance. If detected, contact our office to determine the need for emergency care. You can temporarily relieve the discomfort by applying wax, rinsing with warm salt water, or with pain relievers. It’s important that all athletes have a properly fitting mouthguard.
Broken or lost appliances
If any piece of your orthodontic appliance or retainer is broken or lost, call our office for immediate guidance and to schedule a repair appointment. If your appliance is only cracked but not broken, you can continue to wear it.
Loose teeth
If your teeth begin feeling a little loose, don’t be alarmed. This is a perfectly normal part of the straightening process. Braces need to loosen your teeth before shifting them into the correct position. Once your teeth have been repositioned, they will no longer feel loose.

Orthodontic Specialists

Southeast Pediatric Medical Center
9094 E Mineral Ave Suite 240
Centennial, CO 80112

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720.792.4437
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Make an appointment today!

If you’re thinking about transforming your smile, now’s the perfect time! Schedule your free orthodontic consultation with Dr. Matan Farhi and our expert team at our convenient location inside the Southeast Pediatric Medical Center. We serve patients in many Denver neighborhoods, including Southmoor, Castlewood, Highlands Ranch, and Lone Tree. We can’t wait to meet you!