After Hours Care

Immediate relief and expert solutions for urgent orthodontic issues, from broken braces to severe discomfort.
After Hours: (858) 484-6100

24/7 Urgent Line

Call to get our after hours line or call and leave a message for a call back on next business day if not urgent.

(858) 484-6100

When To Contact Dr After Hours

Atypical or unusual discomfort

Trauma to face, mouth, or teeth

Swallowed or inhaled orthodontic appliance

Signs of infection

Common Issues & Quick Fixes

Many orthodontic issues can be temporarily resolved at home until your next appointment

Minor

Loose Bracket

  1. Leave the bracket in place if it's still attached to the wire
  2. Apply orthodontic wax to prevent irritation
  3. Avoid hard or sticky foods
  4. Call during office hours to schedule repair
Minor

Poking Wire

  1. Use a pencil eraser to gently push the wire away
  2. Apply orthodontic wax over the sharp area
  3. Use nail clippers (sterilized) to carefully trim if safe
  4. Call if the problem persists or worsens
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Minor

Lost Rubber Band

  1. Replace with a new rubber band if you have extras
  2. Follow the wearing pattern shown by your doctor
  3. Don't double up bands to compensate
  4. Call if you run out of replacement bands
Emergency

Significant Discomfort

  1. Take over-the-counter pain medication as directed
  2. Apply cold compress to outside of mouth
  3. Rinse with warm salt water
  4. Call emergency line immediately if pain is unbearable
If this becomes severe, contact office for after hours line.
Urgent

Broken Retainer

  1. Stop wearing the broken retainer immediately
  2. Keep the pieces in a safe place
  3. Call or text our office the next business day
  4. Don't attempt to fix or continue wearing
Minor

Mouth Sores

  1. Rinse with warm salt water several times daily
  2. Apply orthodontic wax to irritating areas
  3. Use over-the-counter oral pain relief gel
  4. Contact us if sores worsen or don't heal

Office Information

Regular office hours and location details for non-urgent issues

San Diego, CA

9339 Carmel Mountain Rd. #D,
San Diego, CA, 92129

(858) 484-6100

Urgent Kit Essentials

Keep these items handy for quick fixes between appointments. We’ll provide these items at your next visit.

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Orthodontic wax for covering sharp areas
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Small scissors or nail clippers for cutting wires
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Tweezers for removing food particles
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Over-the-counter pain relievers
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Salt for rinsing (1 tsp per cup warm water)
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Emergency contact card with our numbers

Support

Don't Wait in Pain

Don’t hesitate to contact us anytime for urgent orthodontic issues. Your comfort and safety are our top priorities.