Emergency Information in Atlanta, GA

Orthodontic emergencies can be very uncomfortable. At Patel & Womble Orthodontics, board-certified orthodontists Dr. Ruchir R. Patel and Dr. Brian A. Womble are here for you when you need them the most. We offer emergency information and appointments six days a week at our McDonough and Norcross offices near Atlanta so that we can fix your broken braces or get you out of pain as soon as possible.

What do you do in the case of an Orthodontic Emergency?

When you’re suffering from an orthodontic emergency, it’s important that you notify our Atlanta orthodontists right away. If you already have an appointment, please contact us to ensure that we can get everything ready to make any necessary repairs to your orthodontic appliance.

Loose Brackets or Bands

If you have a loose appliance, or a bracket has fallen off, it may need to be replaced or removed. It’s best to have the bracket or band replaced as soon as possible, as the change in pressure on your teeth may significantly alter your tooth movement.

Wire Irritations

It’s not unusual for an orthodontic wire to cause irritation to your cheek. For immediate relief, apply a small amount of orthodontic wax to act as a buffer between the wire and your mouth. In most cases, it just takes a few days for your mouth to become accustomed to the irritation so that it no longer bothers you. If you are in extreme discomfort, call our office, and we will instruct you on what to do next.

Lost Separators or Spacers

Separators and spacers for braces are designed to create and maintain open areas between your teeth. Once that space is achieved, it’s not uncommon for your separator to fall out. If your spacer was accidentally removed, we need to replace it quickly before the teeth shift back together.

Discomfort Associated with Orthodontic Treatment

It’s not uncommon to experience soreness or tenderness after an orthodontic adjustment or immediately after a new alignment treatment is started. If you’re experiencing discomfort, over-the-counter pain relievers can provide relief to get you through the first couple of days. A warm compress or heating pad can also help.

Dental Trauma

If an injury results in a knocked out or shifted tooth, please contact our McDonough or Norcross office immediately. A knocked out tooth needs to be professionally treated within one hour to make saving it possible.

If you have a knocked out (avulsed) tooth:

• Be sure to only handle the top (crown) of the tooth, if you must pick it up. The root is very delicate and should not be touched if at all possible.
• Use tap water, saline or contact solution to gently rinse away any visible debris.
• Place the tooth back into the socket if possible, being careful not to touch the root.
• If you cannot put the tooth back into the socket, store it in a container of milk or saline and bring it to our office immediately. Alternatively, you can tuck the tooth into your cheek to keep it moist, but be careful not to accidentally swallow it.

Unfortunately, orthodontic emergencies happen when you least expect it. Fortunately, the board-certified orthodontists at Patel & Womble Orthodontics are always ready to help. Contact our McDonough or Norcross, GA office near Atlanta right away. Dental financing for your orthodontic emergency treatment is easy with CareCredit® and OrthoFi.