Traditional orthodontics are designed to straighten your teeth safely and effectively, but as with all things in life, accidents happen! Whether it’s a loose bracket, a poking wire, or a snapped band, knowing what to do can prevent discomfort and keep your treatment from being delayed. Keep reading to discover common orthodontic accidents and what to do if your braces break.
Step 1: Assess the Damage to Your Braces
Once you feel something is “off” with your braces, the first thing to do is take a closer look in a mirror. Check for loose or detached brackets, these are the small, bonded segments that the wires feed through.
Next, see if any of the wires are broken. This is usually fairly obvious as you’ll feel a sharp, poking sensation against your lips, cheek, or gums.
Finally, look out for snapped elastics. If your braces use bands, they can sometimes break or slip off. Identifying the problem will help you determine your next steps.
Step 2: Relieve Discomfort
The next order of business should be relieving any pain or irritation you may be experiencing. This will help you stay calm and collected when you finally report to your orthodontist.
For poking wires, use orthodontic wax to cover the sharp end. If you’re confident, you can also try moving it back into place with a clean cotton swab or rubber eraser.
If you have a loose bracket, try gently sliding it back into place and securing it with wax. Avoid using any other adhesives like superglue to try to fix it yourself as this may do far more harm than good!
General irritation can often be relieved with a quick saltwater rinse. Simply add a teaspoon of regular table salt to 8 ounces of warm water and swish for thirty seconds to a minute. For soreness or discomfort, you can use over-the-counter pain relievers.
Step 3: Schedule a Braces Appointment with Your Orthodontist
Even if the break doesn’t seem severe, it’s important to get in touch with your orthodontist as soon as possible. This is because even minor damage could derail your treatment if left alone for too long!
Braces work best when they’re in good condition, so handling any breakages quickly is key. By taking the right steps and visiting your orthodontist quickly, you’ll keep your treatment running smoothly. When your smile is on the line, every day counts!
About the Author
Dr. William “Vaughn” Holland is a passionate prosthodontist and orthodontist on a mission to save smiles. After earning his dental doctorate from the University of Florida College of Dentistry, he stayed on for an intensive dual-specialist program. As only one of only a handful of these specialists in the US, Dr. Holland excels, even with complex cases. Call (904) 388-4600 to schedule an emergency appointment at Ortega Orthodontics or visit our website to explore other services.