Orthodontic appliances are designed to be strong and reliable, but sometimes, unexpected issues happen. Whether it’s a broken bracket, poking wire, or discomfort that just won’t go away, knowing where to turn for fast, effective help can bring peace of mind. That’s why Michael Richards Orthodontics proudly offers emergency orthodontic care in Riverton, UT, giving our patients quick access to expert support when problems arise.

What Qualifies as an Orthodontic Emergency?

Not every orthodontic issue is a true emergency, but some situations do require prompt attention to prevent discomfort, damage to your appliance, or setbacks in your treatment progress. Here are some of the most common orthodontic emergencies we see:

Some common orthodontic emergencies can include:

• Loose or broken brackets or bands
• Poking or broken wires
• Lost aligners or retainers
• Discomfort from a shifted appliance
• Swelling or pain that doesn’t improve with at-home care

If you’re unsure whether your issue is an emergency, don’t hesitate to call us. Our team is here to help assess the situation and determine the best course of action.

What to Do in an Orthodontic Emergency

We always recommend giving our office a call first. In many cases, we can talk you through temporary relief steps over the phone and then schedule a convenient appointment to resolve the issue in person.

Here are a few quick tips for handling common orthodontic emergencies until you can be seen:

• Poking wires: Use orthodontic wax to cover the sharp end, or gently push it back into place with a cotton swab or pencil eraser.
• Loose bracket: If it’s still attached to the wire, leave it in place and apply wax for comfort. If it falls off, save it and bring it to your appointment.
• Discomfort from new appliances or adjustments: Use over-the-counter pain relievers, saltwater rinses, and orthodontic wax to manage soreness.
• Lost retainer or aligner: Contact us right away. Continued use is crucial to avoid shifting.

If there’s bleeding, swelling, or signs of infection, especially after an injury to the mouth, it’s important to seek care immediately—either from us or your general dentist, depending on the situation.

Emergency Care for Invisalign & Clear Aligners

While Invisalign emergencies are less common, they can still happen. If you lose or crack an aligner or experience discomfort from sharp edges, give us a call right away.

We may advise you to:

• Move to the next set of aligners early (if you’re close to switching)
• Go back to the previous set (if you’re early in the cycle)
• Schedule a visit to trim or polish the aligner for comfort
• Order a replacement aligner if needed
• Prompt communication is key to avoiding delays in your treatment.

When to Seek Immediate Help

Some orthodontic issues can wait a day or two, but others need to be addressed right away. Contact our office immediately if you experience:

• Significant facial swelling
• Severe pain or bleeding
• A broken appliance causing injury
• A swallowed or aspirated appliance piece (rare but serious)

In rare cases where urgent care or emergency dental intervention is needed outside our hours, we can guide you to the appropriate next steps.

Why Patients Trust Michael Richards Orthodontics for Emergency Care

At Michael Richards Orthodontics, we understand that unexpected issues can be stressful, and we’re here to help you through them. Our patients trust us for:

• Prompt availability for urgent appointments
• Clear instructions and supportive communication
• Gentle, expert care for all ages
• A welcoming environment that puts your comfort first

Whether you’re a current patient or someone new experiencing an urgent orthodontic issue, we’re here for you with reliable emergency care and compassionate service.

If you or your child is experiencing an orthodontic emergency, don’t wait. Call Michael Richards Orthodontics for quick answers, same-day appointments when needed, and peace of mind from a team you can trust.