While many orthodontic issues can be remedied at home, true orthodontic emergencies require immediate medical attention. If you or your child have suffered a major injury to the head, face or mouth, or if you feel faint or lose consciousness, visit an emergency room or urgent care center. Other emergencies include:

Once you have seen a physician at urgent care or at the emergency room, you should then schedule an appointment with your dentist to assess your teeth and gums. For your teeth, whether chipped, cracked, or knocked loose, the dentist is your number-one source of help. After you see the dentist, your orthodontic treatment plan can be adjusted as needed. Likewise, severe pain or swelling could be a sign of infection or disease of teeth or gums, which also needs immediate treatment from the dentist.