Orthodontic treatment is very common. If you follow the recommendations of your orthodontist, treatment is usually very reliable and problem-free. However, we’ve created some guidance on how to tell if you’re suffering from an orthodontic emergency and what to do next.
If you have had an accident or are experiencing any of the following, contact the NHS Emergency services immediately:
Swallowed a piece of your brace which is causing breathing difficulties or choking
Facial swelling affecting your vision, breathing, affecting your ability to swallow or preventing you from opening your mouth more than two fingers wide
Trauma causing loss of consciousness, double vision or vomiting
Rapid and uncontrollable bleeding from your mouth
If you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms, please contact us as soon as possible and we will make a priority appointment:
Swelling of your gum, cheek or face which is spreading. If the swelling is spreading down your neck, up to your eye or along the floor of your mouth you must make sure you mention this when you contact the practice
Excruciating pain in your mouth which is affecting your ability to sleep or concentrate
Been following self-help advice for your problem but the pain is getting worse
Experienced facial trauma (a blow to the mouth) which is causing pain or problems
A loose part of your brace which you could be at risk of swallowing
Problems following post-orthognathic surgery (please contact your local hospital team if possible)
A broken part of your brace which is causing pain and damage to your mouth, that you haven’t been able to manage with self-help advice
Broken or ill-fitting removable aligners
Pain or problems with TADS (mini screws/mini implants)
If you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms, they are typically not considered an emergency. Please contact us and we'll make an appointment to help you as soon as possible:
Wires from braces digging in
Discomfort from braces rubbing
Broken or damaged retainers which are painful to wear, or you can’t wear
A broken bracket or tube which you are not at risk of swallowing and isn’t painful or damaging your mouth
Lost springs or modules from fixed braces
Loose appliances like quadhelixes or RMEs which you can’t fix at home
Sometimes you may experience a brace wire that breaks. This happens now and again, especially if you are wearing a brace for some length of time.
If a wire breaks, don't worry! If possible, cover the end of the wire with orthodontic wax, a small cotton ball, or piece of gauze until you can get to the practice. Never cut the wire and please contact the practice as soon as possible.
If a bracket comes away from your tooth during treatment, please contact us as soon as possible. Usually, the bracket will stay attached to the wire and can be left until your next appointment unless causing irritation.
If the bracket does come away from the wire please keep it safe and bring it with you to your next appointment.
