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Langley
8411 200 St #105
Langley Twp, BC V2Y 0E7
Langley
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236-300-9299
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Burnaby
7255 Kingsway
Burnaby, BC V5E 1G5
Burnaby
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236-246-6689
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North Edmonton
15371 37 St NW
Edmonton, AB, T5Y 0S5
North Edmonton
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587-800-0751
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West Edmonton
1014 Webber Greens Dr NW
Edmonton, AB, T5T 4K5
West Edmonton
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587-410-0285
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South Edmonton
1048 91 St SW
Edmonton, AB, T6X 0P2
South Edmonton
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587-416-0051
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Leduc
3610 Rollyview Rd
Leduc, AB, T9E 1C9
Leduc
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587-207-5708
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Red Deer
6 Clearview Market Way
Red Deer, AB, T4P 0M9
Red Deer
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825-500-5143
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What Is Considered an Orthodontic Emergency?
True orthodontic emergencies are rare, but it’s important to know how to respond if something goes wrong with your appliance or if unexpected discomfort arises. Emergencies generally involve pain, injury, or disruption to your treatment. While some issues can be managed at home temporarily, certain problems like significant pain, broken brackets, poking or loose wires, lost retainers, or trauma require prompt professional attention to protect your smile and keep treatment on track.

Loose Bracket

If the bracket is still attached to the wire, leave it in place and apply orthodontic wax to prevent irritation. If it comes off entirely, keep it in a safe place and bring it to your next appointment.

Poking Wire

Use a clean pencil eraser or cotton swab to gently push the wire back into place. If that’s not possible, cover the end with orthodontic wax to reduce discomfort. If necessary, you may carefully clip the wire with sanitized nail clippers.

Loose Wire

Try using clean tweezers to reposition the wire into the bracket or tube. If it won’t stay, apply wax over the area or clip it carefully, and contact your orthodontist.

Soreness or Irritation

Mild discomfort is normal after adjustments. Rinse with warm salt water, stick to soft foods, and apply wax to brackets or wires rubbing against cheeks, lips, or tongue.

Lost Aligner

If an aligner is lost, do not skip it or move on to the next one, as this can delay your treatment. Contact your orthodontist as soon as possible to get a replacement and stay on track.

Lost Retainer

Going without your retainer can allow teeth to shift, reversing treatment progress. Your provider will guide you on getting a replacement or adjusting your retention plan.

When to Seek Emergency Dental or Medical Care

If your emergency involves significant trauma, broken teeth, heavy bleeding, or facial injuries, go directly to an emergency dental clinic or hospital. Once the immediate concern is treated, follow up with your orthodontist to assess any impact on your braces or aligners.
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Always Reach Out with Questions

If you’re ever unsure about whether a situation is an emergency or how to handle it, don’t hesitate to call your orthodontic office. Most issues can be managed quickly and easily with the right guidance.
Prompt communication can help prevent small problems from becoming bigger ones and keep your treatment on track with minimal stress.
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