orthodontic treatment
Emergency Treatments
Emergency Orthodontist
Orthodontic emergencies are rare, but when they happen, we’re here to help. As a general rule, you should call our office whenever you experience severe pain or have a painful appliance problem you can’t take care of yourself. We’ll be able to schedule an immediate appointment to resolve the problem.
Don't hesitate to reach out if you’re experiencing an orthodontic emergency. Contact Viva Orthodontics today for expert advice and fast relief!
What is an Orthodontic Emergency?
An orthodontic emergency can involve severe pain, infection, or trauma to the mouth that requires immediate attention by a professional. This includes injuries to the face or teeth, excessive bleeding, significant swelling, or intense discomfort that cannot be relieved with home remedies.
Some common orthodontic emergencies can include:
Broken or displaced brackets or wires causing injury
Severe pain or swelling in the gums, lips, or cheeks
A broken or bent wire that is deeply poking the inside of the mouth
Trauma to the teeth or jaw resulting in loose or knocked-out teeth (this may also require emergency dentistry)
Non-urgent issues that can often wait until your next appointment include:
Mild soreness from braces adjustments
A loose bracket that isn’t causing pain
A lost or broken retainer
Minor wire irritation that can be covered with wax
If you're unsure whether your situation is an emergency, call our office, and we’ll guide you on the next steps!
What is an Orthodontic Emergency?
Relieving General Soreness
It’s normal to feel some soreness for a few days after getting braces. Stick to soft foods and rinse with warm salt water to ease any irritation. If needed, take Acetaminophen (Tylenol) but avoid Ibuprofen or Aspirin, as they can slow tooth movement. Wax can also help with irritation from braces rubbing against the lips or cheeks.
Broken or Loose Brackets
If your bracket is still attached to the wire, leave it in place and cover it with orthodontic wax. If it comes off completely, store it safely and bring it to your next appointment. Call us if it’s causing discomfort or needs urgent attention.
Loose Wires
If a wire comes loose, try using tweezers or needle-nosed pliers to gently place it back into position. If that doesn’t work, you can tie it in place using dental floss in place of the missing coloured o-ring. If the wire is still bothering you and wax doesn’t help, carefully trim it using a small fingernail clipper behind the last secure bracket. Be sure to place wax on any sharp ends for comfort.
Poking Wires
Try using a pencil eraser to push the wire down or place orthodontic wax on the sharp end. If the wire is too long or causing pain, contact us for an adjustment.
Loose Appliance, Bands, or Spacers
If your appliance is poking you, place wax on the offending part. If a band or spacer falls out, give us a call. Some cases may require immediate attention, while others can wait until your next appointment.
Lost or Broken Retainers/Aligners
Keep your old aligner or retainer (if possible) and contact our office for a replacement plan. Avoid skipping days without one to prevent treatment delays.
Headgear Issues
Sometimes, discomfort can be caused by not wearing the headgear as instructed by your orthodontist. Please refer to the instructions provided by your orthodontist. Please call our office for assistance if the facebow (metal piece) is bent. The headgear should hurt less the more it’s worn, so be sure you get in the prescribed number of hours.
Dental Emergency
If you experience a dental emergency, like a knocked-out tooth, a chipped or broken tooth, a tooth abscess, or severe bleeding, please visit your nearest emergency room or contact your dentist immediately. They are best equipped to handle urgent dental issues not related to orthodontics. However, if you can’t reach your dentist or need further support, call us at Viva Orthodontics. Our team can guide you on the next steps or bring you in for an assessment if needed.
Severe Pain or Swelling
If you experience significant pain, swelling, or signs of infection, call us. Severe discomfort may need urgent treatment or emergency dental care.
We're Here to Help!
If you have an orthodontic emergency, don’t worry—we can schedule you for an immediate appointment or help you as needed! Contact Viva Orthodontics, and our team will provide oral health guidance and fast relief.
When to Visit the Clinic vs. Handle at Home
You might be surprised to learn that many orthodontic issues can be managed at home until you can visit one of our clinics. If a loose piece of your braces comes off, store it in a plastic bag and bring it to your next appointment. For minor discomfort, use orthodontic wax, rinse with warm salt water, or take over-the-counter pain relief like Tylenol. If a wire has shifted, you can gently reposition it with tweezers or tuck it in place with wax.
However, we know that some situations require more than an at-home fix. Contact us right away if you experience severe pain, significant swelling, an injury to your mouth, or if a broken wire is causing excess bleeding. Delaying repairs for damaged appliances can extend your treatment time, so always check in with us if you're unsure.
Contact us in any emergency here:
What to Expect During an Emergency Visit
During an emergency visit at one of our Viva Orthodontic clinics, we prioritize relieving pain and discomfort while assessing the issue at hand. Our orthodontists will examine your braces, aligners, or other orthodontic appliances to determine the root cause of the problem. If possible, we’ll make immediate repairs. If a full repair isn’t possible right away, we’ll provide a temporary solution and schedule a follow-up appointment. Our goal is to get your treatment back on track as quickly and smoothly as possible.
If you're experiencing an orthodontic emergency, call us in any emergency
Viva Orthodontics Locations
Clayton Heights
Suite 107
6758 188th Street
Surrey, BC
778-574-8484
Coquitlam
Suite 640
2755 Lougheed Highway
Port Coquitlam, BC
604-552-3899
New Westminster
612 Belmont St
New Westminster, BC
604-522-9871
South Surrey
Suite 225
2411 160th Street
Surrey, BC
604-385-0805