Medically reviewed by Dr. David Dung, DDS, MS, Board-Certified Orthodontist.
Orthodontic Emergency Care in Honolulu & ʻAiea, HI
Most orthodontic problems are not true emergencies. A poking wire, a loose bracket, or general soreness can usually be eased at home and handled at your next visit. True emergencies, like a facial injury, severe pain, or swelling, are rare and need immediate attention. If you are ever unsure, call our Honolulu or ʻAiea office and we will help you decide what to do.
If you are a Dung Orthodontics patient and something does not feel right, please reach out. A quick phone call often saves an unnecessary trip, and we would always rather hear from you than have you worry.
Is It a True Emergency?
Call us immediately, or seek emergency medical care, if you have:
- A direct injury to the mouth, teeth, or face.
- Severe, unmanageable pain.
- Significant swelling, bleeding, or signs of infection.
- Trouble breathing or swallowing.
These situations are uncommon, but they come first. Everything below can typically wait for the next business day.
Common Issues You Can Manage at Home
Poking or Protruding Wire
Use the eraser end of a pencil or a cotton swab to gently push the wire flat against the tooth. If it still bothers you, cover the end with a small ball of orthodontic wax. If a wire is very long, you may, as a last resort, clip it with clean nail clippers and cover the end with wax.
Loose or Broken Bracket
A bracket that has come loose but is still on the wire is not an emergency. Leave it in place and cover it with wax if it is irritating. If it comes off entirely, save it and bring it to your appointment. Call us so we can schedule a time to re-attach it.
Loose Band or Lost Separator
If a band comes loose, save it and call us. If a spacer (separator) falls out, this is usually normal as teeth shift, but let us know so we can check whether it needs replacing.
A Tie or Wire Came Loose
If a small rubber or wire tie comes off, you can sometimes slip a rubber tie back on with clean tweezers. If a wire has slipped out of place, cover the area with wax and call us.
General Soreness
It is normal for teeth and gums to feel tender for a few days after braces are placed or adjusted. A warm salt-water rinse, soft foods, and orthodontic wax all help.
Managing Discomfort
For soreness, acetaminophen (Tylenol) is generally preferred over ibuprofen or other anti-inflammatory pain relievers. Anti-inflammatory medicines may slow the tooth movement that braces and aligners rely on, so acetaminophen is the better choice for routine orthodontic discomfort, taken as directed on the label. A warm salt-water rinse and soft foods for a day or two also go a long way.
When in Doubt, Call Us
You know your own comfort best. If something feels wrong, or you simply are not sure, call the office. We will talk it through and let you know whether to come in.
> Honolulu (808) 941-5241 · ʻAiea (808) 488-0026 · or request an appointment