Here is the completely revised `orthodontic-emergencies.php` page. I have updated the styles to exactly match the **Adult Orthodontics** page by: 1. **Matching Fonts & Colors:** Ensured it inherits the global `:root` variables from `style.css` (Deep Blue `#1e3a8a`, Accent Orange `#ea580c`) instead of redefining conflicting local variables. 2. **Matching Backgrounds:** Used the standard `.section-white` and `.section-light` classes found on your Adult page. 3. **Hero Height:** Set the hero section height to `min-height: 100vh` and used `justify-content: space-evenly` to match the spacing of the other main pages. ```php Thomas Orthodontics | Tampa's Trusted Orthodontist
Don't Panic

Orthodontic Emergencies
Visual Repair Guide

Most issues can be fixed at home.
Use the guide below to get comfortable until we can see you.

Call Us

Is This a True Emergency?

True Emergency

Action: Go to ER or Call Dentist Immediately

  • Trauma/Injury: A fall or hit to the mouth resulting in bleeding or loose teeth.
  • Severe Infection: Swelling of the face or gums accompanied by fever.
  • Unmanageable Pain: Pain not relieved by Tylenol/Advil.

Minor Issue (Fix at Home)

Action: Use the guide below & call during business hours

  • Loose Bracket: Annoying, but not urgent.
  • Poking Wire: Can be clipped or covered.
  • Lost Spacer: Can often be replaced at home.

How to Fix Common Issues

1. Dealing with Poking Wires

Identifying a poking wire

1. Identify the Wire

Use a mirror and a good light (like your phone flashlight) to locate exactly where the wire is poking your cheek. It is usually at the very back.

Clipping wire with nail clippers

2. Clip It (If Necessary)

If you can't push it back, use a clean pair of fingernail clippers. Place them behind the last bracket and snip the excess wire. Be careful not to swallow the piece!

Applying wax to braces

3. Cover with Wax

If it still feels sharp (or you can't cut it), dry the area with a tissue. Roll a BB-sized ball of orthodontic wax and squish it firmly over the sharp end.

Pushing steel tie with Q-tip

4. The "Pigtail" Fix

Sometimes it's just a small twisted wire (pigtail) sticking out. Use a Q-tip or pencil eraser to gently push it back under the main wire.

2. Replacing a Lost Spacer

Threading floss through spacer

Step 1: Thread the Floss

Take two pieces of dental floss and thread them through the center of the blue spacer. Hold one piece of floss on each side with your fingers.

Flossing spacer between teeth

Step 2: Floss It In

Stretch the spacer thin by pulling the floss. "See-saw" the spacer back between your teeth until you feel it pop below the contact point. Then pull the floss out.

3. Sores & Loose Brackets

Mouth sores from braces

Mouth Sores (Ulcers)

Your lips may get sore as they toughen up. Apply wax to the bracket rubbing the sore (as shown). Rinse with warm salt water to speed up healing.

Loose bracket sliding on wire

Loose Bracket

If a bracket comes loose but is still on the wire, it will slide back and forth. This is not an emergency! Leave it alone or use wax to stick it to the adjacent tooth until your visit.

Emergency FAQs

I swallowed a bracket!
Don't panic. Brackets are small and usually pass naturally without issue. However, if you have difficulty breathing or sharp stomach pain, seek medical help immediately.
My gums are bleeding.
This is usually caused by plaque buildup, not the braces. You need to brush and floss MORE, not less! Use a warm salt water rinse to soothe the inflammation.
I lost my Invisalign tray.
Move to the next tray immediately. If it is too tight or doesn't fit, go back to the previous tray to hold your teeth in place and call us to order a replacement.
My expander feels loose.
If your palatal expander is loose on one side, push it back up with your thumb. Avoid sticky foods. Call us immediately—we need to re-cement it before it gets damaged.
I lost a separator (spacer).
If it falls out a day or two before your appointment, it usually means the space is ready! If it falls out earlier, try to replace it using the floss method shown above or call us.
My teeth hurt after an adjustment.
General soreness is normal for 3-5 days. Take Tylenol or Advil as you would for a headache. Stick to soft foods like smoothies, mashed potatoes, and mac-n-cheese.
Do I need to see an emergency dentist?
Only if you have trauma (knocked out teeth) or severe infection. For broken braces or wires, wait to see Dr. Thomas. General dentists usually don't have the tools to fix braces.
How do I make salt water rinse?
Mix 1 teaspoon of table salt into a cup of warm water. Swish it around your mouth for 30 seconds and spit it out. This helps heal sores and reduce gum inflammation.
Comfort Visit

Still in Pain?

If you can't resolve the issue at home, we are here to help. Call us to schedule a repair visit.

Call Now
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