Emergency Orthodontic Treatment

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Las Cruces Smiles provides orthodontic emergency treatment in Las Cruces, NM. If you experience a breakage or loosening of any of your appliances, please call our office as soon as possible. Please do not come directly to the office. By calling us first we will be able to schedule a time to see you. If you have a scheduled appointment already, please call to let us know that you need something repaired so that we may add additional time to your appointment if needed.

If you need assistance after hours, please call our office phone line and leave a message on our emergency service so that we may contact you. Please be sure to leave your name, phone number with area code, and a brief message.

575-640-3367

Review the topics below for solutions to some common non-emergency problems:

Orthodontic brackets or bands can become loose from the adjustment of your bite during treatment or from indulging in those tempting crunchy or sticky foods. If one becomes loose, please contact our office to let us know so that we can plan to address it at your next visit or at an earlier visit if necessary. If the loose bracket is irritating your lip or cheek, you can place orthodontic wax on the loose band to minimize discomfort.

There are two types of ligatures that may be used to attach the arch wire to the brackets. They may be tiny rubber bands or small, thin wires.

If a rubber band ligature comes off, it may be possible to put it back in place using clean tweezers.

If a wire ligature comes off, it can be removed with clean tweezers. If it is poking the mouth but is not loose, it may be possible to bend it back down away from the tissues with a Q-tip or clean pencil eraser. Let our office know about the problem so that we can decide if we need to see you before your next scheduled appointment.

Rinsing with warm salt-water several times a day can help to heal sores in the mouth. To lessen discomfort, topical anesthetic treatments, such as Orabase or Ora-Gel, can be applied with with a Q-tip to any abrasions or sores in the mouth.

For minor sores in the mouth, Peroxyl, an antiseptic rinse containing hydrogen peroxide, can be used to reduce inflammation and prevent infection. Use Peroxyl up to 4 times per day after brushing. Refer to the product label for specific instructions.

When orthodontic concerns arise unexpectedly, our team of skilled dentists provides timely support to protect your oral health, natural teeth, and other teeth while keeping your gums, jaw, and overall health in mind. We help patients manage swelling, bleeding, painful irritation, or orthodontic injuries linked to trauma, bacteria, or decay, and can treat urgent issues with a careful procedure that minimizes complications.

You never need to wait when comfort or stability is at risk. With compassionate care designed to save your smile and thorough guidance for every check up, we ensure fast, reliable support whenever you need it.

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Emergency Orthodontic Treatment

Review the topics below for solutions to some common non-emergency problems: