Fast, Effective Care for Braces and Aligner Emergencies
Orthodontic emergencies don’t happen often—but when they do, you need a trusted team who can help you quickly and effectively. At Utah Orthodontic Care, our orthodontic experts are trained to handle unexpected issues that arise during treatment. Whether you’re dealing with a poking wire, a broken bracket, or sudden discomfort from your braces or Invisalign aligners, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.
We provide emergency orthodontic support at all 8 convenient locations across the Wasatch Front, so you’re never far from the help you need.
What Is Considered an Orthodontic Emergency?
Most orthodontic concerns are minor and can be managed at home until your next scheduled visit. However, there are certain situations that may require prompt attention from our team. Common orthodontic emergencies include:
- Broken or detached brackets
- Poking or broken wires causing irritation
- Wires that have come loose or slipped out
- Lost, cracked, or ill-fitting aligners
- Pain or swelling that doesn’t subside with home care
- Broken retainers or space maintainers
If you’re unsure whether your issue requires urgent care, contact our team and we’ll help you determine next steps.
What You Can Do at Home Before Your Visit
Many orthodontic problems can be temporarily managed at home until we can see you in-office. Here’s how to handle the most common issues:
Irritating or Poking Wire
In this video: Dr. Brian Randle shows what to do until you can get in to see us. Or view the written explanation below the video.
Braces Wire Has Shifted
In this video: Dr. Brian Randle shows what to do until you can get in to see us.
Braces Wire Slips out of back molar
In this video: Dr. Brian Randle shows what to do until you can get in to see us if the wire in your braces has slipped out of the back molar
Broken Bracket Braces
In this video: Dr. Brian Randle shows what to do until you can get in to see us if a bracket has become separated from the tooth and is sliding along the wire.
Other Common Issues
If your braces or retainer breaks, becomes loose, or if you lose a separator, don’t panic—just give us a call. For a loose bracket or band, we’ll evaluate the situation and ensure you’re seen as quickly as possible. For lost separators, we’ll let you know if a replacement is necessary. Please don’t come straight to the office; we’ll guide you on the next steps based on your call.
When to Seek Urgent Care
While most issues can wait, there are a few situations that may require immediate attention. Contact our office or go to the ER if you experience:
- Severe pain or bleeding
- Facial swelling or trauma
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing
- Damage caused by an accident or fall
In cases like these, you may need to see a medical professional in addition to your dentist specializing in orthodontics.

Emergency Orthodontic Appointments at Utah Orthodontic Care
We reserve appointment slots specifically for emergency visits and will do our best to see you the same or next business day. All of our locations are equipped to handle common issues and staffed by experienced professionals who will get your treatment back on track.
Explore our locations page to find the office nearest you, including:
FAQs About Orthodontic Emergencies
Hear It from Our Patients
Our customers love our service! Here are some of their glowing reviews:
“This clinic is AWESOME! Everyone is so friendly and the doctor is great! I’m happy with my teeth and you really can’t beat the price! Great services and low pricing! I would recommend everyone to come here! Also they are always doing patient appreciation events that are so fun! Bring your kids, your spouse, your friends, your neighbors, BRING EVERYONE!”
“Great orthodontics! I got my braces at UOC and they’ve been so amazing! First appointment is free, they’ll evaluate your teeth and talk to you about braces option options and prices/ plans.My dental insurance did not cover braces for adults ( I chose not to when I made my plan ) and even if I switched my plan I don’t think it would be a nice affordable plan like UOC offered me with monthly payments … I’m happy with them! They were always nice, friendly and flexible with schedules! Recommend it 100%!”
“I love this office. The doctor is fun with the kids, very friendly and approachable. The staff is typically very easy to work with and any time we have any question or concern they have been quick to make it right with us. We had a billing hiccup and Lauren was incredibly understanding and made the process to fix it easy. As a lower income family with multiple kids needing orthodontic work, this has been a huge weight off my shoulders. I cannot recommend them enough.”
“This clinic is AWESOME! Everyone is so friendly and the doctor is great! I’m happy with my teeth and you really can’t beat the price! Great services and low pricing! I would recommend everyone to come here! Also they are always doing patient appreciation events that are so fun! Bring your kids, your spouse, your friends, your neighbors, BRING EVERYONE!”
“Great orthodontics! I got my braces at UOC and they’ve been so amazing! First appointment is free, they’ll evaluate your teeth and talk to you about braces option options and prices/ plans. My dental insurance did not cover braces for adults ( I chose not to when I made my plan ) and even if I switched my plan I don’t think it would be a nice affordable plan like UOC offered me with monthly payments … I’m happy with them! They were always nice, friendly and flexible with schedules! Recommend it 100%!”
“I love this office. The doctor is fun with the kids, very friendly and approachable. The staff is typically very easy to work with and any time we have any question or concern they have been quick to make it right with us. We had a billing hiccup and Lauren was incredibly understanding and made the process to fix it easy. As a lower income family with multiple kids needing orthodontic work, this has been a huge weight off my shoulders. I cannot recommend them enough.”
Schedule an Emergency Orthodontist Visit in Utah
At Utah Orthodontic Care, we’re committed to supporting you through every phase of your treatment—including unexpected moments. Whether you’re a current patient or need urgent orthodontic help while visiting the area, our friendly team is ready to assist you.
We offer:
- Same-day emergency appointments when available
- Affordable pricing and flexible financing
- Medicaid and most insurance plans accepted
- Multilingual staff and multiple Wasatch Front locations
Call (801) 999-4431 or request an appointment online to speak with our team about your orthodontic emergency today.

