Getting braces is a big step toward a healthier smile, but sometimes things don’t go as planned. Broken wires, loose brackets, or sudden discomfort can happen at any point in treatment. Knowing how to handle these situations helps keep your treatment on track and your smile safe.
At Alamo City Orthodontics in San Antonio, we see patients with all types of braces emergencies. Here’s what you should know if something goes wrong.
Common Braces Emergencies
- Loose Brackets
- Brackets may come off if you eat hard or sticky foods.
- If it’s still attached to the wire, leave it in place and cover it with orthodontic wax to avoid irritation.
- Call us to schedule a repair.
- Poking or Broken Wires
- Wires can shift and poke your cheeks or gums.
- Use clean nail clippers or small scissors to trim the wire if it’s causing pain.
- Apply wax for comfort until we see you.
- Lost Spacers or Bands
- Spacers sometimes fall out early. This usually isn’t urgent but call us to see if a replacement is needed.
- Irritation or Sores
- Braces may rub on your cheeks, lips, or tongue.
- Rinse with warm salt water and use wax to reduce friction.
- Broken or Lost Retainers
- Retainers are essential for keeping your smile in place.
- If yours breaks or gets lost, contact us quickly to avoid teeth shifting.
When It’s an Emergency vs. When to Wait
- Call right away for severe pain, bleeding, or a broken appliance that affects your bite.
- Book a regular appointment for minor issues like irritation or a loose bracket that isn’t painful.
We also offer same-day and emergency appointments for urgent cases.
How to Prevent Braces Emergencies
- Avoid crunchy or sticky foods that can damage braces.
- Wear a mouthguard during sports.
- Stick to your scheduled checkups so we can catch problems early.
Why Choose Alamo City Orthodontics
At our San Antonio office, Dr. Dakota Miller and our team provide advanced orthodontic care with flexible scheduling, same-day visits, and insurance-friendly payment options. From traditional braces to clear aligners, we’re here to help you maintain a comfortable and healthy smile throughout treatment.
If you’re dealing with a braces emergency or want to learn more about your options, contact us today.
