Braces are built to be strong, but accidents can happen. A broken bracket, loose wire, or damaged band can occur due to sports injuries, chewing hard foods, or even just normal wear and tear. While it can be unsettling, knowing how to handle the situation will help you stay calm and protect your orthodontic progress.
Step 1: Assess the Damage
First, take a close look in the mirror to see exactly what’s wrong. Is a bracket loose or detached from the tooth? Has a wire popped out or broken? Is a band around a molar missing or shifted? The type of damage will determine how urgent the situation is and what you should do next.
Step 2: Relieve Any Discomfort
Broken braces can sometimes irritate the inside of your cheeks, lips, or tongue. If a wire is poking you, use orthodontic wax to cover the sharp end. If wax isn’t available, you can temporarily place a piece of clean cotton or gauze over the area. Over-the-counter pain relievers can also help reduce soreness until you see your orthodontist.
Step 3: Avoid Making the Problem Worse
Once you notice the break, be extra careful with your braces. Avoid chewing on the side of your mouth with the damage, and skip hard, crunchy, or sticky foods that could worsen the issue. If a bracket is loose, leave it in place until your orthodontist can repair it—trying to fix it yourself could damage your braces or teeth.
Step 4: Contact Your Orthodontist
Even if the damage seems minor, call your orthodontist as soon as possible. Some issues can wait until your next scheduled appointment, while others require immediate attention to keep your treatment on track. Your orthodontist can guide you over the phone and arrange a time for repairs. If you’re unsure whether it’s an emergency, it’s always best to check.
Step 5: Know When It’s Urgent
Not every break requires a same-day appointment, but certain situations should be addressed quickly:
- A broken wire that’s causing significant pain or mouth injury
- A bracket that’s completely detached and at risk of being swallowed
- Severe discomfort that can’t be managed with wax or pain relief
Prompt attention in these cases helps prevent injury and keeps your treatment plan from being delayed.
Step 6: Prevent Future Breaks
While not all accidents are avoidable, you can reduce your risk by following your orthodontist’s instructions:
- Avoid hard, sticky, and chewy foods
- Wear a mouthguard during sports or physical activities
- Brush and floss carefully to prevent unnecessary pressure on brackets and wires
Accidents happen, but quick action and good habits will help you recover smoothly and keep your smile on track.
- About the Practice
Huntington Orthodontics provides expert orthodontic care for patients of all ages, offering both traditional braces and advanced treatment options. Dr. Balicka and our team are experienced in handling orthodontic emergencies, ensuring patients receive prompt, effective care when the unexpected happens.
Call us at (631) 423-7857 or request an appointment online.