Orthodontic Emergencies
in South Carolina

If something doesn’t feel right with your braces or aligners, don’t panic! As a patient of Davis Orthodontics, we have your back. We offer support, guidance, and prompt care for unexpected orthodontic issues.

We're here for you

What is an orthodontic emergency?

An orthodontic emergency is any unexpected issue with your braces or aligners that causes discomfort, interrupts treatment, or raises concern. While most orthodontic problems are not true emergencies, things like poking wires, broken brackets, or lost aligners can still be frustrating or uncomfortable. At Davis Orthodontics, we offer clear instructions for at-home relief and in-office support when needed. Our team will assess the situation, offer guidance by phone or message, and schedule an appointment if necessary. We’re here to make sure your smile stays on track with as little stress as possible.

Fast answers, real peace of mind

The benefits of emergency orthodontic care

Knowing what to do and who to call makes all the difference when something unexpected happens.

Prompt relief

We help ease discomfort quickly, whether it’s with simple at-home fixes or same-day visits when necessary.

Keeps treatment on track

Timely care ensures that broken or missing appliances don’t delay your overall progress.

Support when you need it

Our team is here for you with expert guidance and compassionate care, even if it’s just to double-check that everything is okay.

Common orthodontic issues & emergencies

Poking wire

Broken bracket

Lost or damaged aligner

Sore teeth or jaw

Swallowed or displaced appliance

Poking wire

Wires can sometimes shift and irritate the inside of the mouth. If this happens, try using orthodontic wax over the end of the wire to protect your cheek or gums. You can also try using a clean pencil eraser to gently bend the wire back into place. If discomfort continues, give us a call and we’ll guide you on next steps or get you in for a quick fix.

Broken bracket

A bracket that becomes loose or breaks away from the tooth can usually wait a few days, but it should still be addressed. If it’s still attached to the wire, use wax to keep it in place and prevent irritation. Don’t try to remove it yourself. Contact our office so we can schedule a repair and keep your treatment plan on track.

Lost or damaged aligner

If you damage or misplace your clear aligner, don’t panic. Depending on where you are in your wear cycle, we may recommend moving ahead to your next aligner or going back to the previous one to maintain progress. Call our office, and we’ll advise you on what to do and when to come in for a replacement if needed.

Sore teeth or jaw

Mild soreness is normal after braces are adjusted or when starting a new aligner tray. You can manage this discomfort with over-the-counter pain relievers and soft foods for a day or two. If pain is severe or doesn’t improve, give us a call. There may be something we can adjust to make you more comfortable.

Swallowed or displaced appliance

If a piece of your appliance breaks off and is swallowed or inhaled, seek medical attention immediately and then call our office. Though rare, this is considered a true emergency. We’ll work with your medical provider to coordinate follow-up care and replace the appliance safely.

What to do in an orthodontic emergency

Call or message us

Contact your local Davis Orthodontics office and let us know what’s going on. We’ll ask a few quick questions and determine whether the issue can be managed at home or needs an in-office visit.

At-home guidance (if possible)

For many minor issues, we can guide you through a temporary fix over the phone or by video. We’ll also let you know what to watch for and when to schedule follow-up care.

In-office care

If you need to come in, we’ll schedule you for the soonest available appointment, often on the same-day. Our team will make the necessary repairs and get you feeling comfortable and back on track.

See how quick action keeps treatment on track

Explore our before & after gallery to see how consistent care, even during small setbacks, leads to confident, healthy results.

Frequently asked questions

Should I go to the ER for an orthodontic emergency?

In most cases, no. True emergencies (such as a swallowed appliance or injury to the face/jaw) may require medical attention, but most orthodontic issues can be handled in our office. If you’re unsure, call us first—we’ll guide you.

Can I fix a broken bracket or wire at home?

You can use wax or trim a long wire with sterilized nail clippers if absolutely necessary, but don’t attempt to fully repair appliances yourself. We’ll help you manage the issue safely until we can see you.

What if the issue happens after hours?

Call our main office number and follow the prompts. We’ll respond as quickly as possible and let you know the best way to proceed, whether that’s at-home care, an emergency visit, or a next-day appointment.

Still have questions?

Real stories,

real smiles

Getting Landon’s smile beautiful was a wonderful experience 💚 thank yall! 🫶🏽

Diana B.

The staff is so amazing and nice! I always felt super welcomed and everyone always listened to any concerns I had and my teeth came out perfect! 1000% recommend!

Jordan C.

The staff was extremely wonderful and took their time with my daughter while she was there. They were very helpful and informative and explained everything very well. Overall our experience was wonderful! We can’t wait to spend the next two years or more with this wonderful team

Alison R.

We’re on our second child with braces from Davis Orthodontics! We wouldn’t go anywhere else. When my first child needed braces, Dr Buddy was the only opinion, out of 4, that didn’t rush us into braces before her teeth were ready. I’ve found this practice to be the most trustworthy ever since.

Shera R.

We had a wonderful experience and great results with Davis Orthodontics! The process was very smooth, the staff was very professional. My son loved getting dippin' dots as a treat after appointments.

Olga M.

We had our first appointment at Davis Orthodontics today. Everyone was so nice and treated us very well. Definitely recommend

M O.

Thanks to Davis Orthodontics, our boys have great smiles and straight teeth! Davis Orthodontics have been very helpful and patient through the years!

Heidi B.

Dr. Senderak and the whole Berea team are amazing. They make me feel very welcomed and comfortable every time I go in for a visit. I started my Invisalign journey with them and I am very happy with my results so far!

Jorge C.

Everyone is always extremely nice from the moment you walk in the door, like they’re actually happy to see me! Or maybe they just love my new smile. 😂 Either way, they have made this experience one I won’t forget… The dippin dots for simply showing up is a plus too

Queen J.

Two of my children have been patients at Davis Orthodontics. I highly recommend them to anyone! They are always very kind and very quick getting the patient in and out at appointments.

Kim H.

Ready to start your
smile journey?

Schedule your free consultation today and discover how easy orthodontic treatment can be.

Dr. Buddy Davis is a board-certified orthodontist with a passion for building a strong community of smiles—both in the practice and beyond.

Dr. Buddy Davis is a board-certified orthodontist with a passion for building a strong community of smiles—both in the practice and beyond.

Orthodontic Emergencies
in South Carolina

What is an orthodontic emergency?