What To Do If You Have A Broken Bracket On Your Braces
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Have you ever wondered what to do if you have a broken bracket on your braces? It’s a common issue for anyone undergoing orthodontic treatment, and it can happen at the most inconvenient times. Whether it’s caused by eating something hard, an accident, or simply from normal wear, a broken bracket can leave you feeling unsure about the next steps. While it may seem like a big setback, don’t panic. There are simple steps you can take to ensure your treatment stays on track.
In this blog, we’ll explain what to do if you find yourself with a broken bracket, how to manage the situation until you can see your orthodontist, and tips for preventing damage in the future.
What Is The Role Of Brackets In Braces?
Brackets are essential components of braces, attached to each tooth to help straighten them. They hold the wire that connects the braces, applying gentle pressure to gradually move teeth into alignment. This process is key to effectively correcting misalignment, as the brackets guide the wire, helping to shift the teeth over time for a perfect smile.
Some Common Causes Of Broken Brackets In Braces
- Eating Hard or Sticky Foods: Biting into hard foods like candy, nuts, or popcorn can put pressure on the brackets, causing them to break or come loose. Sticky foods like gum or caramel can also get stuck, leading to bracket damage.
- Accidental Impact: Playing sports, falling, or getting hit in the mouth can cause brackets to break or shift out of place. Even minor accidents can be enough to damage the brackets.
- Poor Oral Hygiene: Not cleaning your braces properly can lead to plaque buildup around the brackets, weakening their adhesion. This can cause them to become loose or detach.
- Improper Braces Care: Fiddling with or applying excessive pressure to the brackets, such as using fingers or tools, can weaken or break the brackets. It’s important to follow orthodontist guidelines to prevent unnecessary stress on the brackets.
- Tooth Movement: As the teeth shift during treatment, brackets may become more vulnerable to breaking if they weren’t securely attached initially or if the tooth moves too quickly.
Immediate Steps If You Have A Broken Bracket On Your Braces
If you break a bracket on your braces, here are the immediate steps to take to minimize discomfort and prevent further damage:
Assess the Damage
Examine the bracket carefully. If the bracket is still attached to the wire but is loose, it’s not an emergency, but it should be fixed soon. If the bracket has completely come off, or if the wire is poking out, it may require more urgent attention.
Protect Your Mouth
If the broken bracket has sharp edges, use orthodontic wax to cover the bracket and prevent it from cutting or irritating your gums and the inside of your mouth. If you don’t have wax, a small piece of cotton or tissue may temporarily help.
Avoid Eating Hard or Sticky Foods
Until you can get to your orthodontist, refrain from eating foods that can worsen the damage, such as hard, crunchy, or sticky foods, which can put extra pressure on your braces.
Contact Your Orthodontist
Call your orthodontist’s office to inform them about the broken bracket. They will advise you on what to do next. In some cases, they may ask you to come in for an emergency appointment, or they may schedule a time for a repair.
Take Pain Relievers if Necessary
If the broken bracket is causing discomfort, pain relievers, like ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help until you’re able to visit your orthodontist.
How To Avoid Breaking Brackets In The Future?
- Avoid Hard and Sticky Foods: Don’t eat foods like popcorn, nuts, and gum that can put excessive pressure on the brackets.
- Chew with Your Back Teeth: When eating, use your back teeth to minimize the pressure on the brackets in the front.
- Cut Food into Small Pieces: Cut your food into small, manageable pieces to avoid damaging your braces.
- Wear a Mouthguard for Sports: Protect your braces from potential impact by using a mouthguard during sports, especially contact activities.
- Attend Regular Orthodontic Check-ups: Frequent visits to your orthodontist will ensure any loose or damaged brackets are addressed before they cause bigger issues.
Takeaway
Dealing with a broken bracket on your braces can be concerning, but taking quick action can help prevent further damage and discomfort. Whether you need to temporarily manage the issue or schedule a visit with your orthodontist, staying calm and following the steps outlined can minimize disruptions in your treatment. If you find yourself with a broken bracket, don’t hesitate to get in touch with your orthodontic care provider for a prompt solution. Remember, timely intervention ensures your treatment progresses smoothly and effectively.
Fix Your Broken Bracket Today At City Of Lights Dental
If you’re dealing with a broken bracket or need help managing your braces, don’t wait; contact City of Lights Dental today for a consultation. Our expert team will assist you in keeping your treatment on track. Book your consultation today. call us at. (630) 216-4019, or visit our clinic at 1940 W Galena Blvd Suite 11 Aurora, IL 60506-4483
FAQs
It’s best to schedule an appointment as soon as possible to avoid disrupting your treatment plan. A broken bracket may lead to discomfort or affect the progress of your alignment.
While you can temporarily secure a broken bracket with orthodontic wax, it’s important to visit your orthodontist for a professional repair.
A broken bracket can cause irritation to your mouth or gums, especially if it’s poking or pressing against soft tissue. Using orthodontic wax can help reduce discomfort until you can see your orthodontist.
