Emergency Orthodontics in Southeastern Virginia

True orthodontic emergencies don’t happen often, but if they do, the Woodard Orthodontics team is here for you!

We provide compassionate and timely emergency orthodontic treatment for patients in Chesapeake, Suffolk, and the surrounding communities. For 25 years and counting, our team has been a reliable resource for patients who experience minor roadblocks along their smile journey.

The good news is that you don’t have to rush to our office for most issues you’re likely to encounter during treatment. There are easy home solutions that can help you keep your progress on track for issues such as broken brackets or poking wires. Below is a list of the more common problems that can occur, along with solutions to help you deal with them if you cannot come to our offices or are unable to be seen right away.

How Do I Know if I Need To Schedule an Emergency Orthodontist Appointment?

A true orthodontic emergency involves trauma or intense discomfort that cannot wait for your next scheduled appointment. These may include:

If you’re unsure whether your situation qualifies as an emergency, please call us at (757) 523-0114 (Chesapeake) or (757) 686-3955 (Suffolk). We’ll help you determine next steps.

*If you experience a severe injury to the mouth, teeth, or face, please visit your nearest emergency room first to ensure your safety and health.

Most Issues Are Minor—Here’s What You Can Handle at Home

Although some issues may initially cause concern, not all require immediate in-office care. Many problems can be temporarily managed at home until your next visit. When in doubt, don’t hesitate to reach out! Our team is happy to guide you through quick fixes, whether you have braces or aligners, or schedule an emergency orthodontist appointment if needed.

Here are some tips to help you manage any issues that may arise:

Tooth Soreness or Wiggling Teeth

Minor soreness is normal, especially after adjustments have been made. Rinsing with warm salt water or taking over-the-counter pain relievers usually helps. If your tooth feels a little loose, don’t panic! This is a normal part of the process of your teeth shifting into new positions. If the discomfort persists or worsens, contact our office.

Loose or Broken Brackets and Wires

If a bracket or band becomes loose or detaches but isn’t causing discomfort, you can wait for us to fix it at your next appointment. You can use orthodontic wax to cover any sharp edges and avoid irritation.

Poking Wires

A wire that’s poking your cheek or gums can often be moved with a cotton swab or clean pencil eraser. If needed, cover the area with wax until your next appointment. If the pain is severe and the wax isn’t helping, call our office.

Spacer or Separator Fell Out

Separators or spacers can fall out on their own before your next visit. This is common and usually not an emergency. Call us to see if it needs replacement before your next appointment.

Retainer Broken or Lost

This is one scenario where we don’t want you to wait it out until your next appointment. A broken or lost retainer should be addressed as soon as possible to prevent unwanted tooth movement. Call us right away to schedule a repair or replacement.

Food Stuck in Braces

Use dental floss, a water flosser, a toothbrush, or an interdental brush to remove stuck food. If the food causes persistent discomfort or swelling, give us a call.

Avoiding Emergencies: A Few Simple Tips

Most emergency orthodontic situations can be avoided by taking proper care of your appliances and following Dr. Lilli’s instructions. A little caution goes a long way in keeping your treatment smooth and worry-free.

What Not To Eat With Braces

Avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods that can break or dislodge appliances. Cut fruits and vegetables into smaller pieces and chew carefully when eating.

How to Care for Braces the Right Way

Brush and floss daily, and use tools designed for braces to keep your mouth clean and healthy. Good hygiene prevents infections and irritation that can lead to emergencies.

Wear a Mouthguard for Sports

Whether you're wearing braces or retainers, a properly fitted mouthguard protects your teeth and appliances from injury during physical activity.

Trusted Emergency Orthodontic Care in Southeastern Virginia

If you’re experiencing an orthodontic issue that can’t wait, reach out to us right away. We’re here to provide prompt, expert emergency orthodontic care for those irritating or painful issues that won’t go away.

Our friendly, women-led team is here to guide you through any urgent situation with compassion and skill. You can rely on us to keep your smile healthy and your treatment on track, no matter what!