Orthodontic Problems & Emergencies
Problems can occasionally occur during orthodontic treatment, such as a loose bracket, irritating wire, damaged appliance or lost aligner.
Most orthodontic problems are not true dental emergencies, but they should still be addressed so that treatment can continue as planned.
If you are unsure what to do, contact Best Western Dental Centre for advice.
Loose or Broken Bracket
A bracket may occasionally become loose from the tooth, particularly after eating hard or sticky foods.
If the bracket is still attached to the orthodontic wire and is not causing discomfort, it can usually remain in place temporarily. Avoid playing with it and contact us so we can advise whether an earlier appointment is required.
If the bracket comes completely away, keep it if possible and contact the practice.
Poking or Broken Orthodontic Wire
As teeth move, the end of an orthodontic wire can occasionally begin to irritate the cheek or gum.
Orthodontic wax can be placed over the irritating area for temporary relief.
If a wire is broken, significantly displaced or causing ongoing discomfort, please contact us rather than attempting major adjustments yourself.
Discomfort After Braces Are Adjusted
Some tenderness or pressure is common after braces are fitted or adjusted. Teeth may feel sensitive when biting for several days while they respond to the orthodontic forces.
Softer foods can make eating more comfortable during this period.
If pain is severe, persists longer than expected or you are concerned that something is wrong, please contact the practice.
Mouth Irritation, Ulcers or Sore Gums From Braces
Brackets and wires can occasionally rub against the lips or cheeks, particularly when braces are first fitted. Orthodontic wax can be placed over the area causing irritation while your mouth adapts.
Gums can also become sore or inflamed during orthodontic treatment, particularly when plaque accumulates around brackets and wires. Careful brushing and cleaning around your braces is important.
For short-term gum irritation, we may recommend an antiseptic mouthwash such as Curasept® where appropriate. Follow the directions provided by our dental team and on the product label.
If soreness, swelling or an ulcer is severe, persistent or appears to be caused by a damaged appliance or protruding wire, please contact us for advice.
Lost or Damaged Clear Aligners
If you lose or damage a clear aligner, contact us before moving on to another aligner unless you have previously been instructed to do so.
Depending on where you are in your treatment, we may advise you to wear your previous aligner, move to another aligner or arrange a replacement.
Avoid going without an aligner for an extended period, as teeth may begin to move away from their planned positions.
Broken or Lost Retainers
If your removable retainer is lost, broken or no longer fits correctly, or if your fixed retainer becomes loose, contact us promptly.
Teeth can move when retention is interrupted, particularly soon after orthodontic treatment.
Do not wait until your next routine dental appointment if you think your retainer is no longer working correctly.
Problems With Removable Orthodontic Appliances
If a removable orthodontic appliance becomes damaged, uncomfortable or no longer fits properly, stop trying to adjust it yourself and contact us for advice.
For children undergoing early orthodontic treatment or arch development, regular appliance wear can be important to treatment progress. An appliance problem should therefore be assessed rather than simply leaving the appliance out for an extended period.
When Is It a Dental Emergency?
True orthodontic emergencies are uncommon.
Seek urgent dental or medical attention following significant trauma to the teeth or jaws, uncontrolled bleeding, severe or rapidly increasing swelling, difficulty breathing or swallowing, or other serious symptoms.
For a broken bracket, irritating wire, lost aligner or damaged orthodontic appliance, contact Best Western Dental Centre during practice hours and we will advise you on the appropriate next step.
Need Help With Your Braces, Aligners or Appliance?
If something does not feel right with your braces, clear aligners, retainer or orthodontic appliance, please contact us.
Where helpful, our team may ask you to send us a clear photograph of the problem so we can determine whether you need an earlier appointment.
Contact Best Western Dental Centre
Page reviewed by Dr Nathan Le, BDS (University of Sydney), August 2026.