What is an emergency?

I can’t think of any orthodontic emergencies that are considered life threatening.
Certainly, the orthodontic office can best make the patient comfortable if there is an emergency. What about the times when you can’t get to the office?
Broken brackets, wire pokes, loose bands can happen and may be referred to as an emergency.… not to worry if it occurs after hours, on a weekend, or if you are out of town. Nail clippers, clean pencil eraser, and dental wax are fantastic tools and work great to make the patient comfortable until he/she can visit the orthodontist.
An example of what could be done would be…. a wire can be cut with nail clippers close to the last bracket it is attached to.

It is strongly suggested that a mouthguard made for orthodontic appliances be worn while playing any contact sport. A tooth knocked out or a bracket through the lip because a mouthguard was not worn is a real emergency. In this case… it is important to get to the orthodontist, dentist, or dental specialist as soon as possible. Think safety!

Keep Smiling!