Braces are a proven effective way to straighten misaligned teeth. Designed using durable brackets and wires, these appliances are meant to hold up to daily use and even significant pressure. However, it’s not uncommon for problems to arrive, causing one or more parts to break. Knowing what to do can help prevent a serious delay, so if you want to keep your treatment on track, here are some steps you can take to fix the problem and get the help you need.
What Can Cause Braces to Break?
Traditional braces are made of metal, which means they are meant to be highly durable. Depending on who is wearing these appliances, though, the chances of damage or breakage are possible. This can happen by:
- Not wearing appropriate mouth protection while playing sports and sustaining a facial injury.
- Not being mindful of the food you’re eating, as hard, crunchy items can cause problems.
- Wearing additional orthodontic appliances, like a palate expander or metal bands.
How to Fix Broken Braces
The moment you discover a problem with your braces, you should plan to call your dentist. Getting in for an appointment to have them fixed is important if you want to avoid wearing your braces any longer than necessary.
The steps most dentists and orthodontists recommend include:
- Look Closely at Any Potential Damage – After discovering that your braces are broken, carefully look at the problem area so that you can easily explain to your dental team what happened and why you need help.
- Manage the Problem While Waiting at Home – Until you can get in to see your dentist or orthodontist, protect the rest of your smile by using orthodontic wax to cover poking wires or loose brackets. Also, bring any parts that fall off with you to your appointment.
- Call Your Orthodontist or Dentist – Once you are comfortable explaining the situation, call and speak to a member of your dental team. Your description of the problem will make it easier for them to determine the severity of the issue so that an appropriate appointment time is provided.
- Get the Help You Need – When arriving at your dentist’s office, they will start by examining your mouth to determine the problem area. After identifying the broken part(s) of your braces, they will begin alleviating any discomfort as well as administering appropriate treatment to fix the issue and make sure your orthodontic appliance is as good as new.
Avoiding damage to your braces is essential and can be accomplished by staying away from hard, crunchy foods as well as wearing essential mouth protection during physical activity. While prevention is always best, trust that your dentist or orthodontist can provide the emergency care you need should an issue with your braces arise.
About Grand Dental – Sycamore
At Grand Dental – Sycamore, we are pleased to have an in-house orthodontist who can take care of orthodontic emergencies. When a broken bracket or loose wire causes discomfort and damage, we can quickly alleviate the pain and fix the broken piece(s) to reveal a fully restored appliance that works correctly and keeps treatment on track. If you or your child is dealing with a loose band, broken archwire, or detached bracket, visit our website to learn more.