Emergency Orthodontist
Orthodontic emergencies can happen without warning. A loose wire, broken bracket, or trauma to the mouth can lead to pain, swelling, or disrupted treatment. Fast, professional care prevents minor issues from turning into bigger problems.
Embrace Orthodontics provides emergency orthodontic services across Dallas, Fort Worth, Irving, and Balch Springs. We offer quick access to care when patients need it most and deliver support that keeps treatment plans on track.
What Counts as an Orthodontic Emergency?
Not all discomfort during orthodontic treatment requires an urgent visit. However, some issues need attention right away. The following problems are considered orthodontic emergencies:
Brackets may come off the tooth if you bite into something hard or receive a bump to the mouth. If the bracket is still attached to the wire, place orthodontic wax on it to reduce irritation. If it has come off entirely, save it and call our office.
Wires can shift or break, causing pain or injury to the cheeks, lips, or gums. If a wire is poking, use a clean cotton swab or the eraser end of a pencil to move it back. Wax can also help cover the sharp end until it can be fixed.
Mild soreness is common after braces are first placed or adjusted. Pain that lasts longer than a week or increases in severity should be evaluated. Over-the-counter pain relief and salt water rinses may help until you can be seen.
While this is not always an emergency, trapped food can cause pain and swelling. If floss or an interdental brush does not remove the debris, contact our team for assistance.
Any injury that affects the mouth or jaw and damages orthodontic appliances should be checked immediately. This includes trauma during sports, falls, or accidents. Check for broken brackets, bleeding, or pain when biting. Seek medical attention if a fracture or serious injury is suspected, then schedule a follow-up with us.
Cracked or broken retainers and removable devices should be repaired as soon as possible. Wearing damaged appliances may cause new alignment issues or discomfort.
Swelling near a tooth, bleeding gums, or signs of infection must be addressed promptly. These may not be caused by the braces themselves but could interfere with treatment.
What You Can Do Before the Appointment
Taking the right steps before visiting can ease discomfort and prevent the issue from worsening. Here’s how to manage common emergencies until you reach the office:
- Use orthodontic wax to cover sharp wires or brackets
- Rinse with warm salt water to soothe sore areas
- Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling
- Take over-the-counter pain medication if needed
- Keep any loose parts in a clean container and bring them with you
If you are unsure what to do, call us. Our staff will provide instructions over the phone to help manage the situation safely.
Preventing Orthodontic Emergencies
Some orthodontic emergencies are unavoidable, especially with active lifestyles or during sports. However, many can be prevented by following a few simple guidelines:
Stay away from sticky, crunchy, or hard foods like gum, popcorn, ice, and nuts. These can loosen brackets, damage wires, or get stuck between appliances.
Food buildup around brackets and wires can cause gum issues, cavities, and discomfort. Brush after every meal and floss carefully to keep your mouth clean.
Patients who play sports or take part in physical activities should wear a custom mouthguard. This protects braces and teeth from injury during contact or falls.
Wear your appliances and elastics as directed. Skipping wear time or adjusting appliances without guidance can lead to unnecessary problems.
Our Emergency Orthodontic Process
When patients call Embrace Orthodontics with an urgent issue, we take quick action to assess the situation and schedule an in-office visit.
Our team will listen to your concern, offer guidance, and determine the level of urgency. You’ll receive clear instructions to keep the situation under control.
We reserve slots for emergency visits during regular hours. Patients are seen as soon as possible to relieve discomfort and prevent treatment delays.
Your orthodontist will examine the problem area and take action to resolve it. This may involve replacing brackets, trimming wires, or adjusting appliances.
Once the issue is resolved, we’ll review the overall treatment progress to confirm that nothing has been disrupted. We’ll also provide tips to avoid similar issues moving forward.
Why Families Choose Embrace Orthodontics for Urgent Care
Orthodontic problems can be stressful, especially for young patients. That’s why Embrace Orthodontics is built to respond quickly and calmly to emergency needs. Our team is trained to treat urgent issues with care and efficiency.
Dr. Anas Athar is a dual-trained orthodontist and oral and maxillofacial radiologist. His background allows him to diagnose issues with clarity and respond with the right solutions.
Patients can reach us easily across Dallas, Fort Worth, Irving, and Balch Springs. Each location is equipped to handle emergency repairs during regular hours.
We understand that pain or broken appliances can cause anxiety. Our team explains each step of the process to help patients feel comfortable and supported.
We offer same-day appointments when possible. We know that delays in emergency care can lead to bigger problems and added discomfort.
Emergency visits are covered under most treatment plans. Our staff works with Medicaid, CHIP, and major PPOs to make sure you get the care you need without added stress.
Schedule a Visit or Call with an Emergency
If you’re dealing with an orthodontic emergency, don’t wait. Contact Embrace Orthodontics right away. Our team will provide the support you need to protect your treatment progress and relieve discomfort.
