Emergency Orthodontics in Southeastern Connecticut
Orthodontic emergencies can be uncomfortable, inconvenient, and sometimes alarming. Knowing you have a trusted team ready to help can make all the difference! With over 65 years of experience and a 24/7 on-call team, we’re proud to offer prompt, compassionate emergency orthodontic care that keeps your smile on track.
What Is Considered an Orthodontic Emergency?
True orthodontic emergencies include issues like severe pain, significant trauma to the mouth or face, signs of infection or swelling of the gums, mouth, or face. These situations require immediate attention and should never be ignored.
Most Orthodontic Issues Can Be Resolved at Home
Fortunately, most orthodontic concerns are minor and don’t require an immediate visit. If you contact our office during business hours, we’re happy to help you determine if a visit is necessary. While we are on-call 24/7 for traumatic emergencies, please do not use our emergency line to cancel appointments or for other non-emergency issues. Oftentimes, you’ll be able to fix the following issues at home without needing to schedule an emergency visit:
General Tooth Pain or Loosening
Mild soreness is normal, especially after an adjustment. Over-the-counter pain relievers and a soft food diet usually ease discomfort. If a tooth feels loose, don’t worry; it’s a normal part of the process as your teeth shift into position.
Loose/Broken Brackets, Bands, or Wires
If a bracket or wire becomes loose or detached, it’s typically not an urgent issue. Use orthodontic wax to cover sharp areas and call us to schedule a repair. We’ll get you back on track quickly and comfortably.
Misplaced or Poking Archwire, Bracket, or Tie
Poking wires or out-of-place brackets can irritate your cheeks and gums, but this isn’t an urgent issue. Orthodontic wax can offer relief until we can adjust it for you. Contact us to schedule an appointment at your convenience; we typically recommend being seen within 7 days of the issue.
Separator or Spacer Comes Loose
If a separator falls out, it’s usually not an emergency. Give us a call, and we’ll advise whether it needs to be replaced before your next visit.
Headgear
If your headgear becomes bent or no longer fits properly, stop wearing it and contact our office. For your safety and treatment progress, it’s best not to attempt to adjust it yourself.
Broken Retainer
A broken or lost retainer should be addressed quickly, but it’s not an emergency matter. You should contact us on the next business day to schedule an appointment, so we can get a replacement made as quickly as possible to protect your results.
Food Stuck in Braces
Stuck food can cause pressure or discomfort. Gently use floss, a toothbrush, or an interdental brush to remove the debris. If pain persists, call us for guidance.
Preventing an Orthodontic Emergency Is Easy!
Follow Eating instructions
Hard, sticky, or chewy foods can damage braces or wires. Avoid these and stick to brace-friendly foods that won’t compromise your treatment.
Follow Dental and Braces Care Instructions
Brush and floss carefully around brackets and wires to keep your teeth and gums healthy. Excellent oral hygiene helps prevent complications during treatment.
Wear a Mouthguard When Playing Sport
Protect your braces and smile by wearing a custom-fit mouthguard during contact sports. OASECT offers free mouthguards to patients starting treatment.
Get Emergency Care When You Need It at OASECT
Emergencies don’t wait, and neither should you. At OASECT, we have someone on call 24/7, every day of the year, to help resolve traumatic facial injuries or other orthodontic emergencies that are causing severe pain. With decades of experience, advanced technology, and compassionate care, we’re proud to be our community’s source for emergency orthodontic care.
If you’re facing an urgent issue, call our Waterford or Norwich office and let our team help restore your comfort and confidence.