If you have a direct injury to your mouth or teeth, whether undergoing orthodontic care or not, you should be seen by your regular dentist as soon as possible. Usually a radiograph of the involved tooth or teeth is needed to ascertain the extent of the injury. If an orthodontic appliance has been dislodged or displaced, we will need to replace or adjust them as soon as possible. Broken or disturbed appliances are likely to occur from time to time during your orthodontic care.

• If a tie wire is irritating your mouth, cover it with wax or tuck it under the archwire using a blunt object like a pencil eraser or a Q-tip.
  
  
• A loose band or bracket can generally be left in place until seen in the office. Call the office as soon as you notice a loose band or bracket so we can schedule you to be seen to reattach the loose appliance.
  
  
• A broken archwire, or one that is irritating the gum or cheek tissue, needs to be seen as soon as possible for replacement or adjustment. For temporary relief attempt to cover the irritating wire with wax.