Prompt Care for Orthodontic Emergencies in Bellevue, WA
Orthodontic emergencies can be unexpected and stressful, but you don’t have to handle them alone. At Schur Orthodontics, we help patients in braces and clear aligners find relief quickly, whether you’re dealing with a loose bracket, a poking wire, a lost aligner, or sudden discomfort. Don’t wait in pain. Call our Bellevue, WA office at (425) 747-4477 so we can protect your smile and keep your treatment on track.
Request an AppointmentWhat Counts as an Orthodontic Emergency?
Most orthodontic problems are minor and can be managed temporarily at home until we can see you. Common issues include:
- A loose or broken bracket or band
- A wire that is poking your cheek, lips, or gums
- A lost, cracked, or ill-fitting Invisalign® aligner or retainer
- Soreness or irritation after an adjustment or a new set of aligners
- A loose or broken appliance
True dental emergencies, such as trauma to the face or mouth, severe swelling, uncontrolled bleeding, or signs of infection, require immediate attention. In these situations, seek emergency medical care first, then contact our office.
What to Expect When You Call Our Office
When you reach out to Schur Orthodontics, our team responds promptly to assess your situation and walk you through immediate steps to ease discomfort. We prioritize urgent cases and schedule visits to address broken wires, loose brackets, damaged appliances, and severe soreness. Our goal is to minimize any disruption to your treatment and restore your comfort as soon as possible.
Helpful Tips for Managing Minor Issues at Home
While you wait for your appointment, these simple steps can help:
- Poking wire: Cover the end with orthodontic wax, or gently push it flat with a clean pencil eraser.
- Loose bracket: Leave it in place if it’s still attached to the wire, cover it with wax if it irritates, and save any pieces that come off.
- Lost aligner: Move on to your next set of aligners in the series and call us so we can adjust your plan.
- General soreness: Rinse with warm salt water, eat soft foods, and use over-the-counter pain relievers as directed.
If you’re unsure whether your problem is an emergency, call (425) 747-4477 for advice. Timely care helps prevent complications and keeps your progress on schedule. Patients in Invisalign® and Invisalign® Teen often report far fewer repairs and emergencies than patients in traditional braces, but our team is here to help no matter which treatment you’ve chosen.
Whether you’re an adult in braces or a parent of a child in children’s braces, Schur Orthodontics is your trusted partner for fast, caring orthodontic support in Bellevue, WA.
Orthodontic Emergency FAQs
What counts as an orthodontic emergency?
Common orthodontic emergencies include loose or broken brackets, wires poking your cheeks or gums, lost or broken aligners or retainers, damaged appliances, and significant pain. If you experience any of these, contact Schur Orthodontics promptly.
Can I fix a poking wire at home?
You can often ease discomfort temporarily by covering the wire with orthodontic wax or gently pushing it flat with a clean pencil eraser. Call our office so we can fix the problem properly and prevent further irritation.
Is it normal to have soreness after an adjustment?
Yes. Mild soreness after an adjustment or new aligners is common and usually fades within a few days. Soft foods, warm salt water rinses, and over-the-counter pain relievers can help.
What should I do if a bracket comes off?
If the bracket is still attached to the wire, leave it in place and cover it with wax if it irritates. If it comes off completely, save it and call (425) 747-4477. Avoid hard or sticky foods until it’s repaired.
What should I do if I lose an Invisalign aligner?
In most cases, move on to your next set of aligners and call us as soon as possible so Dr. Schur can confirm the best plan for your treatment.
How quickly should I call for an orthodontic emergency?
Call (425) 747-4477 as soon as you notice pain, a broken appliance, or an injury related to your braces or aligners. Prompt care prevents delays in your treatment progress.
When should I go to the emergency room instead?
Seek emergency medical care right away for facial trauma, severe swelling, uncontrolled bleeding, difficulty breathing or swallowing, or signs of a serious infection. Contact our office afterward so we can check your orthodontic appliances.