March 24, 2026
Orthodontic treatment is a big investment in your smile, and most of the journey goes smoothly. But every now and then, something unexpected happens between appointments. A wire pokes, a bracket pops off, or your aligner starts feeling off. Knowing how to handle these moments can keep your treatment on track and save you a lot of worry.
Here's what you need to know about common orthodontic emergencies, what you can do at home, and when it's time to call the office.
5 Urgent Scenarios with Braces or Aligners
Not every issue requires a same-day visit, but some do need your attention right away. Below are the most common orthodontic problems patients experience and exactly what to do in an emergency situation.
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1. Broken Bracket
A broken bracket is one of the most common issues patients run into with braces. You'll usually notice it when a small metal square feels like it's spinning, sliding along the wire, or sitting at a strange angle. It might feel loose or scratchy against your cheek or lips.
What to do: Don't panic. If the bracket is still attached to the wire, leave it in place. You can apply a small piece of orthodontic wax over it to keep it from irritating the inside of your mouth. Avoid sticky, crunchy, or hard foods until you get it fixed.
When to call: Contact Get It Straight Orthodontics as soon as you can to schedule a repair appointment. A broken bracket won't move your teeth the way it should, so getting it fixed promptly helps keep your treatment timeline on track.
2. De-Bonded Bracket
A de-bonded bracket has completely come off the tooth. You might find it dangling on the wire or discover it's come loose entirely. This can happen from eating hard or sticky foods, or occasionally just from normal wear.
What to do: If the bracket is still hanging on the wire, leave it there and apply orthodontic wax to cushion the area. If it comes off completely, keep it in a small bag and bring it to your appointment. Don't try to glue it back yourself.
When to call: Reach out to us within a day or two to get it re-bonded. If several brackets have come loose or if the bracket is on a front tooth, call sooner.
3. Loose or Poking Wire
An archwire can sometimes slip out of place or poke out at the back of your mouth, irritating your cheek or gums. This is especially common after adjustments when the wire is still settling.
What to do: First, try gently pushing the wire back into place using a cotton swab or the eraser end of a pencil. If that doesn't work, use orthodontic wax to cover the poking end and protect the soft tissue in your mouth. As a last resort, you can carefully trim the wire with nail clippers that have been cleaned with rubbing alcohol, but only if it's causing significant discomfort and you can't reach us.
When to call: Give the office a call to let us know so we can address it at your next visit or schedule a quick fix if needed.
4. Lost or Broken Aligner
If you're in clear aligner treatment and an aligner cracks, warps, or goes missing, it can slow your progress if you're not careful.
What to do: Move back to your previous aligner to hold your teeth in position. Don't skip ahead to the next aligner in the series, as your teeth won't be ready for it yet. If the aligner has a small crack but still fits snugly, you may be able to continue wearing it temporarily.
When to call: Contact our office promptly. Depending on where you are in your treatment, we may need to order a replacement or adjust your plan. The sooner we know, the better.
5. Mouth Sores or Irritation from Nickel Allergy
Some patients develop irritation, swelling, or sores inside the mouth that aren't just from wires rubbing. If you're experiencing widespread mouth sores, swelling, or a rash around your mouth, there's a chance you could have a sensitivity or allergy to the nickel found in traditional metal braces wires.
What to do: Rinse with warm salt water to soothe irritation. Avoid any foods that could further inflame the area. Note whether the reaction is localized (likely wire irritation) or more widespread (more likely an allergic response).
When to call: If you suspect an allergic reaction rather than just everyday irritation, call us right away. We can explore alternatives like nickel-free or titanium wires. If you're experiencing difficulty swallowing or breathing, seek emergency medical care immediately.
When to Seek Emergency Care or Call Your Orthodontist
While many orthodontic issues can wait a day or two, some need immediate attention. Call Get It Straight Orthodontics right away if you're experiencing severe pain that doesn't respond to over-the-counter pain relievers, swelling in your face or jaw, signs of infection, or any kind of allergic reaction.
You should also call promptly if a broken or missing component has been left unaddressed for more than a couple of days, since hardware that's not working correctly can slow your treatment or cause unintended tooth movement. When in doubt, it's always better to call and check.
Ready to Get Back on Track? We're Here to Help
Whether you're in the middle of an orthodontic emergency or just have a question about your treatment, the team at Get It Straight Orthodontics is here for you. We serve patients across Rochester, Macedon, and Pittsford, NY, and we're committed to making your orthodontic experience as smooth as possible from start to finish.
Don't wait and wonder. If something feels off with your braces or aligners, give us a call at 585-522-0005 or schedule an appointment online today. We'll get you taken care of and back on the path to your best smile.
