Broken braces bracket and wire

At Broadbeach Orthodontics, we understand that dealing with broken braces can be stressful. While it’s not uncommon to experience issues like a broken wire or bracket, knowing how to handle these situations can make a significant difference. Here’s a comprehensive guide on what to do if your braces break.

Immediate Steps to Take When Your Braces Break

When a part of your braces breaks, it’s important to act quickly to minimise discomfort and prevent further damage. Here’s what you should do:

1. Assess the Damage: Carefully examine the broken area. Determine if it’s a loose bracket, broken wire, or a protruding wire.
2. Protect Your Mouth: Use orthodontic wax to cover any sharp edges that could cut the inside of your mouth. This will prevent further irritation until you can get professional help.
3. Contact Your Orthodontist: Send us a photo and message as soon as possible for advice and to schedule a repair appointment.

Common Types of Orthodontic Breakages and How to Manage Them

1. Loose Bracket (Floating) from the Tooth but Still on the Wire:

• What to Do: Brackets are bonded to your teeth with special adhesive. If a bracket comes loose but is still on the wire, it can move and cause discomfort. Use sterilised tweezers to gently slide the bracket along the wire to a more comfortable position, such as between two teeth. Apply dental wax to reduce irritation. Contact us to reattach the bracket.

2. Broken Arch Wire:

• What to Do: A broken arch wire can poke your cheek or gums, causing pain and increasing the risk of infection. Use small pliers or nail clippers to cut off the sharp end. Be careful to avoid swallowing the clipped piece by using a tissue inside your mouth while cutting. Make an appointment with us for a replacement wire.

3. Wire Protruding from the Last Bracket:

• What to Do: As your teeth move, the arch wire might stick out from the back bracket, poking into your cheek or gum. Use nail clippers or small pliers to trim the protruding wire. Cover the end with orthodontic wax to protect your mouth. Schedule a visit to have the wire adjusted.

4. Bent Wire:

• What to Do: Eating hard foods can bend the wire, disrupting the alignment of your teeth. If you notice a bent wire, contact us immediately. Avoid trying to bend the wire back into place yourself, as this could worsen the damage.

Causes of Orthodontic Breakages

Understanding why braces break can help you avoid future issues. Common causes include:

• Eating Hard, Crunchy, or Sticky Foods: These types of foods can put undue stress on your braces. Cutting food into smaller pieces and avoiding certain foods can prevent breakages.
• Sports Injuries: Playing contact sports without a mouthguard can result in broken braces. Always wear a mouthguard to protect your teeth and braces.
• Accidents: Falls or impacts to the face can damage braces. If you experience a significant impact, check your braces and contact us if you notice any damage.

How to Heal ulcers in Your Mouth

It’s common to get mouth ulcers or cuts from braces, especially when they are new or if a part breaks. Here are some tips to heal and prevent sores:

• Use Dental Wax: Apply wax to any areas causing irritation. Roll a pea-sized amount and press it onto the bracket or wire.
• Salt Water Rinses: Rinse your mouth with a teaspoon of salt in warm water several times a day to soothe and clean sores.
• Good Oral Hygiene: Brush regularly to prevent infections and promote healing.
• Numbing Creams: Use over-the-counter oral gels to numb sore areas.

Final Thoughts

If you experience any breakage, it’s crucial to contact Broadbeach Orthodontics immediately. Prompt action can prevent discomfort and keep your treatment on track. Remember, leaving a breakage until your next scheduled appointment can cause complications and potentially extend your treatment time.

For more detailed advice or to schedule an emergency appointment, please reach out to us at Broadbeach Orthodontics. Your oral health is our top priority!