# 1 Orthodontist Sandton; South Africa Orthodontics

What constitutes an orthodontic emergency?

A loose bracket or attachment does not constitute an emergency. Although
it is best to fix it as soon as possible, an emergency is related to something
that causes discomfort.

Remember that loose and broken braces are most often caused by eating
the wrong foods. Our original estimate of your total treatment time assumes
no appliance breakage. Loose and broken braces prolong treatment!

1.	*Poking wire or bracket:* Roll a small piece of wax that was provided to you at the beginning of your orthodontic treatment into a small ball and press it onto the part that is poking you.
2.	*Broken wire:* Press the wire towards your teeth very gently with a pencil eraser. If the wire is loose or you have a loose piece, carefully remove it and place it in a “Zip Lock” bag and bring it to the appointment.
3.	*Loose or Broken Bracket or band:* If the bracket or band is still attached to the wire, contact the office immediately for an appointment to have the bracket or band bonded again. If the bracket or band is loose and in your hand, place in a “Zip Lock” bag and bring it to the appointment.
4.	*Coloured “O” ring (ligature) is missing:* As long as you have other rings still present, usually there is no problem, however, you should contact the office to have the “O” ring replaced.
5.	*Headgear not fitting*: don’t wear the headgear until the next appointment.
6.	*Broken retainer:* do not wear the retainer if it does not fit well. Call the office to schedule an appointment to have the repairs done or if necessary a new one made. Do not wait for several weeks as the teeth may shift requiring additional treatment at additional cost and time.
7.	*Unusual movement of your teeth:* undesired tooth movement can occur when part of your braces are broken or damaged or your wires are bent. If this is the case, please call to schedule an appointment as soon as possible.