What Do I Do If My Braces Break

Aah! Your braces broke! What do you do now? Accidents happen. And braces can take a beating. But they aren’t invulnerable. They can break or incur damage. Knowing what to do if your braces break is essential to your treatment. Our Windy City Orthodontics team, led by Dr. Pakravan, wants to help you. You need to know what steps to take in case of a braces-related problem. Understanding what you should do if your braces break can prevent further damage and ensure your treatment continues smoothly.

Breaking News: Things That Ruin Your Braces

Windy City Orthodontics uses sturdy metal and clear braces. They’re designed to endure being in your mouth for months at a time. When Dr. Pakravan fits you with braces, you will receive some guidelines on how to care for them. We often find that breaks happen when patients do not follow the doctor’s directions. 

One of the main culprits is eating hard or sticky foods that can place excessive pressure on the braces. Chewing on ice, hard candies, or sticky treats can lead to brackets becoming loose or wires bending or breaking. Accidental impact or injury, such as a fall or sports-related mishap, can also damage your braces. Additionally, neglecting proper care and maintenance, such as improper brushing or flossing techniques, can weaken your braces over time, making them more prone to breakage.

Recognizing Signs of Broken Braces

You must learn to recognize the signs of broken braces. If you experience a loose or detached bracket, it clearly indicates your braces are broken. Snapped or protruding wires are another common sign. Do you feel any unusual pain in your mouth? Take that seriously! It may be evidence of a brace-related issue. Maintain your regular check-ups with us. Dr. Pakravan can detect these problems early and address them then and there.

Immediate Steps to Take When Braces Break

If your braces break, remember to breathe. Panic can make minor problems into bigger ones. So don’t be in a hurry. First and foremost, remain calm and assess your situation. If a wire is protruding and causing irritation, you can try and tuck it out of the way using a pencil eraser or cover it with orthodontic wax to prevent further discomfort. If a bracket becomes loose, leave it in place and avoid touching or removing it if it’s not causing pain or discomfort. Attempting to fix it yourself may make it worse or damage the wire requiring more repairs. Rinsing your mouth with warm salt water can help alleviate irritation. However, you should contact us immediately for further guidance and assistance.

Prevention Is Better Than Repair, Every Time

The best way to fix your broken braces is to keep them from breaking in the first place. Windy City Orthodontics has some prevention tips to help you avoid brace breakage in the future.

1. Follow Dietary Guidelines: Adhere to the dietary restrictions provided by Dr. Pakravan. Avoid foods (anything hard, sticky, or chewy) that can strain your braces and increase the risk of damage. Opt for softer foods that are gentle on your braces and teeth.
2. Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Keep up a proper brushing and flossing regimen. It will help maintain healthy braces (your teeth will thank you). Brush after every meal using a soft-bristle toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Take extra care to clean around the brackets and wires, removing any food particles or plaque buildup. Incorporate daily flossing into your routine to reach areas your toothbrush may not easily access.
3. Wear a Mouthguard: If you participate in physical activities or sports, protect your braces by wearing a mouthguard. There are several mouthguards on the market designed to be worn over braces, or a custom-fitted mouthguard (ask us about customized mouthguards) can help absorb impact and prevent injuries to your braces and mouth. Consult with our Windy City Orthodontics team to ensure you have the correct type of mouthguard for your specific needs.
4. Attend Regular Check-ups: Stay committed to your scheduled appointments with Windy City Orthodontics. Regular check-ups allow the doctor to monitor the progress of your treatment, make any necessary adjustments, and identify any potential issues before they escalate into major problems. Timely adjustments can help prevent braces breakage and make sure your treatment exceeds your expectations. 

Braces Treatment At Windy City Orthodontics

Nobody wants to deal with broken braces. But braces are like any other piece of equipment. If you maintain their upkeep, they’ll do what they’re supposed to do. But breaks do happen. Now that you know what to do if it happens to you, you can minimize pain and injury, prevent further damage, and maintain the progress of your orthodontic treatment. Windy City Orthodontics, led by Dr. Pakravan, provides expert braces care in the greater Chicago area. 

Remember, in orthodontic emergencies, it’s crucial to consult a professional orthodontist rather than attempting to fix the issue yourself. Windy City Orthodontics provides the necessary care and support to ensure your orthodontic treatment progresses smoothly. Don’t let a brace breakage hinder your journey to a beautiful, confident smile.

By following the immediate steps outlined in this article and seeking professional assistance, you can effectively address brace breakage. Remember to practice self-care measures, follow the prevention tips, and attend regular check-ups to ensure the best possible outcome for your orthodontic journey. Go here to schedule a free consult at Windy City Orthodontics today. We can’t wait to see your smile transformation!

Posted by Dr. Pakravan