Emergency Orthodontics in Utah

At Utah Orthodontic Care, every doctor at each of our many Wasatch Front locations has years of experience treating a wide range of orthodontic problems in Utah. Whether you’re getting braces for your child or improving your own smile with adult braces, you will receive quality orthodontic care and friendly service!

But, sometimes, an emergency with your braces happens – and when it does, we’re here for you.

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What Should I Do in Case of an Orthodontic Emergency

Thankfully, orthodontic emergencies are rare. Utah Orthodontic Care wants the time you spend wearing braces to be trouble-free, so we are providing information that can help resolve any orthodontic emergencies you may have while wearing braces.

At first, becoming accustomed to braces may take some time. While some general soreness is normal with braces and aligners, having a true orthodontic emergency is rare as most patients finish wearing their braces without having any problems.

If you do have a braces emergency, first determine if the situation requires immediate attention or if it’s a minor issue that you can handle yourself until your next appointment. Here are directions on how to handle some of the most common orthodontic problems and braces emergencies our patients have experienced. If you are visiting Utah and have an orthodontic emergency, call us and we will try to help.

What Qualifies as an Orthodontic Emergency?

Orthodontic emergencies typically include broken brackets, loose wires, poking wires causing pain, lost aligners, or severe pain/swelling. Minor discomfort or irritation is normal and can often be managed at home.

Irritation from Wires

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.

How to address irritation from wires

It’s not uncommon for wires in braces to cause irritation. If a wire is causing you discomfort by poking your cheeks, try moving the wire away from the irritated area with a cotton swab or the head of an eraser. If that doesn’t work, try covering the end of the wire with a small piece of dental wax or sugar free chewing gum.

If the wire in your braces is extremely painful and needs to be cut immediately, wash and sterilize a fingernail clipper or wire cutter in alcohol, then use them to cut the wire. Then, call Utah Orthodontic Care to schedule an appointment. If you cannot fix the poking braces wire, call us to set up an appointment so we can address your issues.

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.

General Discomfort with Orthodontic Treatment

During the first week of your orthodontic treatment, while your mouth is still adjusting to its new braces, it’s possible that you’ll experience some discomfort, soreness, or pain in various parts of your mouth. Stay strong! This is a normal part of the process with braces and does not imply that there is an emergency with your braces. You may use any over the counter non-aspirin pain reliever according to the package directions.

If soreness persists, a warm compress or a heating pad on the outside of your jaw may ease any soreness or tenderness. Swishing warm salt water around your mouth can also help.

Make sure to avoid hard, sticky, or sugary foods, as these can add to the discomfort. Visit our Pinterest board for lots of braces-friendly recipes, such as delicious soups and smoothies!

teenager experiencing pain from orthodontic braces

Dr. Aaron Tolman taking care of orthodontic patient

Frequently Asked Questions About Emergency Orthodontics

What should I do if I have an orthodontic emergency?

If you experience severe pain, broken brackets, loose wires, or any other urgent orthodontic issue, contact our office as soon as possible. We can guide you on whether you need an immediate appointment or if there are temporary solutions.

Can I go to the emergency room for an orthodontic problem?

Most orthodontic emergencies can be handled by our office. However, if you experience severe swelling, difficulty breathing, or a serious mouth injury, go to the ER or seek immediate medical attention.

Can I fix an orthodontic emergency myself, or should I see my orthodontist?

While some minor issues (like covering a poking wire with wax) can be managed at home, it’s always best to contact your orthodontist to ensure your treatment stays on track.

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