Emergencies
What do I do in an Orthodontic Emergency?
If you have just had braces of any kind fitted, please make sure your read the relevant advice for your type of braces in the “Aftercare” section of this website so that you know what normal troubles to expect during the first few days of having your braces.
Fortunately, serious orthodontic emergencies are very uncommon; but there are times when braces get lost or damaged, or become uncomfortable to wear.
Examples of the most common orthodontic emergencies:
- Loose bracket / bracket coming off a tooth
This is when a bracket is no longer stuck to its tooth. This may or may not cause soft tissue discomfort. - A very loose fixed brace or very loose removable brace or retainer
This can cause soft tissue discomfort or make it impractical to wear a brace. - Pain or soreness in the mouth
A toothache may be looked at by your regular dentist, but please feel free to let us know first. You may wish to take painkillers until you see a clinician. Soft tissue discomfort can be dealt with by using warm salt water mouthwashes. We provide orthodontic wax to cushion soft tissues of the mouth away from any loose or sharp components. - A wire poking out and causing soft tissue pain
Use the orthodontic wax we have provided and contact us for help. - Lost or damaged removable braces
In all these cases please telephone the practice on 020 7580 5370 for advice or an emergency appointment. If you call the practice outside normal working hours regarding emergencies that cannot wait until the next working day, you will be provided with an emergency telephone number to call. Please leave a message or send a text if nobody answers your call initially.
Where possible, do not try to adjust your orthodontic appliances yourself unless advised specifically to do so, as this may damage them further.
In the past, there have been very rare reports of eye injuries occurring while wearing headgear. If this happens, treat it like a medical emergency. Go to your local hospital Accident & Emergency Department to see an eye specialist as soon as possible.
Next Step
Please contact Elite Orthodontics London W1 to discuss your specific needs or book an appointment.
Alternatively telephone 020 7580 5370.
