Emergency Dental Care in Salt Lake City
At Goldsberry Orthodontics, we understand that braces don’t always behave perfectly. That’s why we offer responsive and compassionate emergency dentistry in Salt Lake City. Whether you’re experiencing pain, a broken bracket, or a wire that’s poking your cheek, we’re here to help.
While true orthodontic emergencies are rare, when they do happen, immediate care is crucial to avoid delays in your treatment. Our experienced team is ready to assist with any issue big or small to keep your smile progress on track.
General Soreness
When you get your braces on, you may feel general soreness in your mouth, and teeth may be tender to biting pressures for three to five days. Stick to a soft diet until your teeth do not hurt to chew. Irritated gums and other sore spots can be relieved by rinsing your mouth with a warm salt-water mouthwash. Dissolve one teaspoonful of salt in eight ounces of warm water, and rinse your mouth vigorously.
Placing Orabase on the affected area may also help relieve discomfort; Orabase can be found in any pharmacy. If the tenderness is severe, take Acetaminophen (Tylenol) or whatever you normally take for headache or similar pain. Aspirin, Ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil) and Naproxen Sodium (Naprosyn, Anaprox) actually slow the tooth movement, so it is not advisable to use them frequently while wearing braces.
The lips, cheeks, and tongue may become irritated for two to three days
as they learn a new posture and become accustomed to the surface of the braces. You can put wax on the braces to lessen this. We’ll show you how!
Tricks You Can Try at Home
Loose Bracket
If your bracket or band is still attached to the wire, leave it in place and apply orthodontic wax if it’s causing irritation. This can reduce discomfort until you’re able to see our team. If the bracket or band comes off easily, place it in a clean envelope or small container and bring it to your next appointment. For proper follow-up, contact our emergency dentist Salt Lake City office to ensure your braces continue working as planned.
Loose Wire
Using tweezers or needle-nosed pliers, try to gently guide the loose wire back into its correct position. If the small colored o-ring is missing, you can tie the wire in place using dental floss. If you're unable to position it comfortably and wax doesn’t help, use sterilized fingernail clippers to trim the wire just behind the last tooth it’s still attached to. Always apply wax to any sharp ends. If you're unsure, reach out for emergency dental care in Salt Lake City so we can assist safely.
Poking Wire
For wires poking your cheek or gums, use a pencil eraser to gently press the wire down so it no longer causes irritation. Cover the area with orthodontic wax for added comfort. Poking wires are a common part of orthodontic emergencies, and our team is here to help if the issue persists. Don’t hesitate to call us for emergency dental Salt Lake City services.
Emergency Dental Salt Lake City Utah – When to Call Us
We recommend contacting us immediately if:
You’re in significant pain
You’re unable to eat or speak normally
An appliance is broken or dangling
A wire is cutting into your mouth
Something doesn’t feel or look right
What Is Considered an Orthodontic Emergency?
If you're unsure whether your situation qualifies as an emergency, here's a guide to common issues we treat:
Severe Pain or Oral Discomfort - If your mouth hurts beyond mild soreness, it’s time to contact an emergency dentist Salt Lake City residents trust.
Broken or Loose Brackets - Brackets can come loose during eating or from trauma. This requires timely repair to maintain your treatment schedule.
Poking Wires - Sharp wires can cut or irritate your cheeks, tongue, or gums. This is one of the most common orthodontic emergencies we treat.
Lost Spacers or Bands - When parts of your appliance go missing, it can impact the function of your braces. Schedule a repair as soon as possible.
Appliance Damage - Expanders, retainers, and other devices can break or shift out of position. Prompt adjustment ensures continued treatment success.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it an emergency if my braces are just uncomfortable?
Mild discomfort is common, especially after adjustments. However, if the pain becomes intense or doesn’t go away in a few days, contact our emergency dentist Salt Lake City office.
Can I wait until my next appointment to fix a loose bracket?
We recommend calling as soon as you notice the issue. A loose bracket may affect the movement of your teeth or cause discomfort.
What should I do if I accidentally swallow a bracket or part of my braces?
In most cases, it passes safely. Call us immediately and, if you're having trouble breathing or swallowing, visit the nearest emergency room.
Can I visit a regular dentist for an orthodontic emergency?
For braces-related emergencies, it’s best to see an orthodontist. We specialize in emergency dental care Salt Lake City patients need during active treatment.
Do you offer after-hours emergency support?
Yes. For urgent issues outside business hours, call our office and follow the voicemail prompts. We'll guide you through your next steps or schedule a priority visit.
Get in Touch!