When you undergo orthodontic treatment at Lupi Orthodontics with Dr. Lupi in Stafford, VA, you can have confidence that you will receive quality care and that our team will be available to you every step of the way. This includes orthodontic emergencies. While orthodontic emergencies are rare, we want you to feel assured that should one occur, you will be able to receive treatment promptly.

What to Do in Case of Emergency

If you or your child should experience an orthodontic emergency, and are in discomfort with an appliance, or braces, that you cannot repair yourself, call our office right away. We’ll schedule the soonest available appointment for you to help address the issue.

What is a Major Orthodontic Emergency?

These occur very rarely, but the main orthodontic emergencies include:

• An injury to the mouth or face
• Swelling or infection in the gums or other areas of the face
• Severe, unmanageable pain in the mouth or face

Contact your general dentist and our office immediately if any of these situations arise. If you feel that your health is in danger or you are experiencing extreme discomfort, go to the emergency room for treatment and contact us from there to let us know what happened.

Care for Minor Orthodontic Problems

In most cases, if you experience any issues or discomfort with your orthodontic treatment, you will be able to handle the problem yourself.

• Loose appliance: If a part of your appliance is causing irritation, place wax on the offending part until you can see us have it fixed.
• Loose bracket: If the bracket is still attached to the wire, use wax to keep it in place. If it has detached or can be removed easily, store it in a tissue or envelope and bring it to your next appointment at Lupi Orthodontics in Stafford, VA.
• Loose wire: If a wire has become loose, you can adjust it using tweezers and keep it in place with a piece of floss.
• General soreness: This is commonly experienced when the braces are first put on and when the wire is tightened. Rinsing with a warm saltwater mouthwash can help. If the soreness or tenderness is severe, over-the-counter painkillers can be taken.