Life with Braces

Orthodontic Emergency: What is Normal vs. Urgent?

By Dr. Brian Thomas • August 01, 2025

True orthodontic emergencies are rare, but discomfort is common. Here is a quick guide:

  • Poky Wire: Use the wax we gave you! dry the area and push the wax over the wire. You can also use a sterilized nail clipper to clip the long wire.
  • Loose Bracket: If it's not painful, it can usually wait until your next visit. If it's dangling, cover it with wax.
  • Soreness: Normal for 2-3 days after an adjustment. Advil or Tylenol helps.
  • Trauma/Accident: If you hit your mouth and a tooth is loose or bleeding heavily, call us (or your dentist) immediately.