Care Instructions & Orthodontic Emergencies in Cranford, New Jersey
What to Do During Orthodontic Issues or Emergencies
Orthodontic appliances are designed to be durable, but occasional issues can occur during treatment. At Cranford Orthodontics, we want every patient and parent to feel confident handling minor orthodontic problems at home while knowing when to contact our office.
Our board-certified orthodontists — Dr. Ilona Rossignol, and Dr. Scott Gersch — provide guidance and emergency support to patients throughout Cranford, Westfield, Linden, and surrounding New Jersey communities.
If you experience discomfort or appliance damage during orthodontic treatment, call our office at (908) 272-5595. Our team is also available for urgent orthodontic concerns when immediate care is needed.
What Is Considered an Orthodontic Emergency?
Most orthodontic issues are minor and can be managed at home temporarily until your next appointment. However, some situations may require contacting our office for guidance or scheduling a repair visit.
Common orthodontic emergencies include:
- Loose brackets or bands
- Broken or poking wires
- Lost or damaged aligners
- Discomfort from appliance adjustments
- Lost retainers
- Irritation of the cheeks, lips, or gums
True dental emergencies such as trauma or severe injury to the teeth or jaw should be evaluated by your dentist or an emergency medical provider immediately.
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Common Orthodontic Problems and How to Handle Them
Loose Bracket or Band
A bracket may occasionally loosen from the tooth during treatment. If the bracket is still attached to the wire: Leave it in place. Apply orthodontic wax if irritation occurs. Call our office to schedule a repair appointment. Avoid chewing sticky or hard foods that could worsen the issue.
Poking or Irritating Wire
Sometimes a wire may shift and begin irritating the cheek or gum tissue. Temporary solutions include: Placing orthodontic wax over the wire. Using a cotton swab to gently push the wire away from the cheek. Trimming the wire carefully with clean nail clippers if necessary. If irritation continues, contact our office so we can adjust the appliance.
Lost or Broken Retainer
Retainers are essential for maintaining orthodontic results.If your retainer is lost or damaged, contact our office as soon as possible to prevent teeth from shifting. Our team offers professional Retainer Repair and replacement services.
When to Call Our Orthodontic Office
You should contact Cranford Orthodontics if you experience:
- Persistent pain or irritation
- Broken orthodontic appliances
- A wire causing injury to the mouth
- Lost aligners or retainers
- A bracket or band that has detached completely
Our team will help determine whether the issue requires immediate attention or can wait until your next scheduled appointment.
Preventing Orthodontic Emergencies
Many orthodontic issues can be prevented with proper care during treatment.
Helpful tips include:
- Avoid sticky, chewy, or hard foods
- Wear mouthguards during sports
- Maintain excellent oral hygiene
- Follow instructions for aligner wear
- Keep retainers stored safely when not in use
We also provide protective appliances such as Occlusal and Sports Guards for patients involved in athletics.
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Contact Cranford Orthodontics for Orthodontic Emergencies
If you experience an orthodontic issue or appliance problem, our team is here to help.
Cranford Orthodontics
118 North Ave West
Cranford, NJ 07016
Phone: (908) 272-5595
Text Line: (908) 264-2793
Our office offers evening and Saturday appointments, and we provide guidance for urgent orthodontic concerns.
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📍 Our office is located at 118 North Ave West, Cranford, NJ — inside the Cranford Professional Building, next to the Citgo Station.
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