Emergency Orthodontics in Utah

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 orthodontists 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.

  • Use orthodontic wax to cover the wire.
  • If the wire is long and sticking out, gently push it back into place with a clean pencil eraser or Q-tip.
  • If necessary, carefully clip the end with sterilized nail clippers.

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 orthodontist.

teenager experiencing pain from orthodontic braces

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:

Dr. Aaron Tolman taking care of orthodontic patient

FAQs About Orthodontic Emergencies

Broken brackets, poking wires, or anything causing significant discomfort may qualify. Call us so we can assess the severity and provide next steps.

Most orthodontic emergencies are best handled by your orthodontist. Only go to the ER for serious injuries, infections, or trauma to the face.

Yes, if the wire is causing pain and can’t be repositioned, you can clip it with sterilized nail clippers. Be cautious, and still schedule a visit.

If you’re traveling and experience an issue, call our main number. We’ll advise you on what can be done temporarily or help you find a local provider if needed.

Avoid hard, sticky foods, follow your orthodontist’s instructions, and maintain your oral hygiene to reduce complications.

What Our Patients Say About Us

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!”

– Ana R.

“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%!”

– Denise A.

“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.”

– Stephanie Carsten

“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!”

– Ana R.

“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%!”

– Denise A.

“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.”

– Stephanie Carsten