How to Handle an Orthodontic Emergency: Broken Brackets, Poking Wires, and What to Do Next

Orthodontic emergencies happen! Here's what Pittsburgh families should know:

If you or your child is in braces or using aligners like Invisalign®, it's possible you’ll experience a minor orthodontic emergency. Whether it’s a broken bracket, a loose wire, or a poking wire, knowing what to do can help relieve discomfort and prevent further complications.

At our offices in Allison Park and Pleasant Hills, we help patients throughout the greater Pittsburgh area, including the North Hills, South Hills, and surrounding neighborhoods.

What Is an Orthodontic Emergency?

Not all discomfort is a true emergency, but some issues do require prompt attention. Common orthodontic emergencies include:

• Broken bracket or band that is causing irritation

• Loose or poking wire

• Wire slipping out of the bracket

• Mouth irritation

• Lost or broken Invisalign aligners or retainers

• Trauma to the mouth or teeth while wearing braces

  
  

If you're unsure whether it’s urgent, call our office! We will guide you through what to do next.

Preventing Orthodontic Emergencies

Many orthodontic issues can be avoided with a few simple precautions:

• Avoid sticky, hard, or crunchy foods

• Wear a mouthguard during sports

• Follow your orthodontist’s care instructions

• Attend all scheduled checkups

What to Do at Home First

Here are a few ways to relieve discomfort safely until you can be seen:

• Use orthodontic wax to cover sharp or poking wires

• If a wire is sticking out, use clean tweezers or a cotton swab to gently push it back into place

• For a broken bracket, leave it in place if possible. If the broken bracket is causing discomfort, contact us for advice before attempting to remove it

• Trim a long wire with sterilized nail clippers if necessary and safe

• Rinse with warm salt water to soothe irritation

• Apply ice to the outside of the mouth to reduce swelling

When to Call Us Immediately

Please contact our office if you experience:

• A broken appliance causing pain or bleeding

• A wire or bracket cutting into the cheek, lips, or gums

• Visible injury or swelling

• Trauma to the mouth, jaw, or teeth

• A lost or damaged Invisalign tray that prevents progress

Need Help Now?

If you’re dealing with an orthodontic emergency, or you’re not sure what to do, our experienced team is ready to help.

Call your closest location or request an appointment online. We’re here to support you with expert, compassionate care across the Greater Pittsburgh region.

📍Allison Park Office

4485 William Flynn Highway, Allison Park, PA 15101

📞(412) 492-8700

📍Pleasant Hills Office

67 Old Clairton Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15236

📞(412) 655-8200

📍 Proudly serving the Greater Pittsburgh region. Including, but not limited to:

North Hills: Allison Park, Fox Chapel, Hampton Township, McCandless, Glenshaw, Ross Township, Shaler, Wexford, Gibsonia

South Hills: Pleasant Hills, Bethel Park, Mt. Lebanon, Whitehall, Baldwin, Brentwood, South Park, Jefferson Hills, Castle Shannon, Dormont Central & Surrounding Neighborhoods: Squirrel Hill, Shadyside, East Liberty, Greenfield, Oakland, Regent Square, Penn Hills, Point Breeze, Bloomfield, Lawrenceville, and many more!