Emergency Info
Orthodontic emergencies are rare. If something feels off, use these quick tips and call us. We’ll guide you and get you comfortable.
Call us right away if you have:
This emergency info helps you determine when immediate orthodontic care is needed.
Facial injury, uncontrolled bleeding, or cuts requiring stitches
Swelling, fever, or severe pain that doesn’t respond to over-the-counter medication
A wire or metal piece stuck in soft tissue
A swallowed or inhaled appliance piece. If experiencing breathing difficulty or distress, seek emergency medical care immediately
For life-threatening situations, call 911 immediately. For dental trauma involving teeth, contact your general dentist or emergency room first, then notify our office.
Emergency Info At a Glance
Quick Home Fixes
These tips can keep you comfortable until we see you.
Poking Wire or Metal Piece
- Dry the spot and place orthodontic wax over the edge
- Try to tuck the wire back into the bracket with clean tweezers or a pencil eraser
- If a small end sticks out and you cannot tuck it, you may carefully clip the tiny excess with clean nail clippers, then add wax
- Call us for an appointment
Loose or Floating Bracket
- If it’s still on the wire, cover with wax so it doesn’t rub
- If it comes off, save it in a small bag and bring it with you
- Avoid hard or sticky foods until we repair it
- Call us to schedule a repair
Archwire Our of the Back Bracket
- Try to reinsert with clean tweezers
- If you can’t, wax it or clip the very end if it is safe to do so
- Call us to schedule a repair
Power Chain or Elastic Came Off
- This is common. Call us; we’ll replace it at your next visit. Use wax if anything rubs
Lost, Cracked, or Broken Clear Aligners
- Do not wear a cracked or misshapen tray
- If you lost your current aligner, wear the most recent previous set to hold your progress
- Call us for a replacement or to discuss moving to the next step based on your case
Lost or Broken Retainer
- Do not wear a broken retainer
- Call us to replace it. If you have a backup, wear it until your visit
Mouth Soreness or Ulcers
- Warm salt-water rinses (1 tsp salt in 8 oz warm water)
- Wax on rubbing areas
- Over-the-counter pain relief as directed
Do not use glue or adhesives on any orthodontic parts.
Do not force an appliance back into place.
What's Normal Soreness
Mild tenderness after an adjustment or starting aligners is normal for a few days. Soft foods help. If pain is severe or worsens, call us.
After-Hours Help
Call the office and follow the prompts. Leave a message with your name, phone number, and what’s happening. We’ll advise you and set the soonest visit if needed. If you’re in pain that cannot wait, use the steps above to stay comfortable and consider urgent care or the ER for injuries.
Handy Items to Keep
- Orthodontic wax
- Clean tweezers
- Small nail clippers
- Floss threader
- Cotton swabs
- Travel toothbrush
- Salt for rinses
- Small bag for any loose parts
Why Families Trust Dr. Cooper Callaway
Choosing the right orthodontist means finding someone who combines expertise with genuine care. Dr. Callaway delivers both, bringing decades of experience and advanced technology to families throughout Columbus with a warm, personal approach that puts patients first.
⭐️ 4.9-Star Healthgrades Rating with 900+ Reviews
Families consistently rate Dr. Callaway for his clear explanations, attentive listening, and trustworthy care that makes orthodontic treatment feel comfortable and stress-free.
🎓 25+ Years of Expertise – Orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics
As a trusted pillar in the Columbus community, Dr. Callaway brings over two decades of specialized orthodontic experience to every treatment plan, ensuring optimal results for patients of all ages.
🦷 Advanced Technology – 3D imaging, iTero scans, 3M aligners
Dr. Callaway uses cutting-edge tools like iTero digital scanners and i-CAT 3D imaging, combined with the personalized attention you’d expect from your local orthodontist.
💙 Care That Feels Like Family – Friendly, local, and approachable
Dr. Callaway treats every patient like his own family member, creating a calm, supportive environment where both children and parents feel confident throughout the entire treatment process.
Emergency: Frequently Asked Questions
Is a loose bracket an emergency
Not usually, but call us soon. Wax it for comfort and we’ll repair it to keep treatment on track
Can I clip a wire at home
If it’s a tiny end and you cannot tuck it, you may clip the tip with clean nail clippers and wax it. Then call us to check it
I swallowed a bracket or elastic, what now
It usually passes without issue. If you have trouble breathing, chest pain, or severe stomach pain, go to the ER
I lost my aligner, do I go back or forward
Wear your previous well-fitting tray and call us. We’ll advise you based on your plan
Can't Find What You Need in Our Emergency Info?
If this emergency info doesn’t address your specific situation or you need immediate guidance, our team is here to help. Don’t hesitate to call – we’d rather hear from you and provide peace of mind than have you worry about your orthodontic emergency.
