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Braces are built to last through daily wear and tear, but let’s face it—life happens. A bracket can come loose, a wire can pop out, or something just feels “off.” If you’re in Myrtle Beach and wondering what to do when braces break, don’t worry—Dr. Juan at Seabreeze Orthodontics has you covered.
First Steps to Assess the Situation
When you notice something wrong with your braces, the first thing to do is stay calm. Braces mishaps are common, and most can be managed until you see your orthodontist. Here’s a quick checklist to help you assess the damage:
- Check the bracket or wire: Is it loose, bent, or completely detached?
- Inspect for discomfort: Are wires poking your cheeks or gums?
- Look for missing pieces: If a bracket or band has fallen off, try to locate it and store it safely.
- Note any pain: Pain isn’t always part of a broken bracket but can indicate an issue that needs prompt attention.
Once you’ve assessed the situation, you can proceed with temporary fixes to stay comfortable. Remember, your orthodontist is just a phone call away!
Temporary Fixes for Broken Braces
Broken braces can be annoying, but there are ways to protect your mouth and prevent further damage until your appointment. Let’s break it down into common scenarios:
Floating Bracket
If a bracket is loose but still attached to the wire, keep it in place. Orthodontic wax can be a lifesaver here! Roll a small piece into a ball and press it over the bracket to hold it steady.
Pro Tip: Sugar-free gum can be a short-term solution if you don’t have orthodontic wax.
Protruding Wire
A wire sticking out can irritate your cheeks or gums. Use the eraser end of a pencil to push the wire back into place gently. If that doesn’t work, cover the sharp end with wax or a piece of gauze to prevent it from poking you further.
Bent Wire
If a wire is bent out of shape, clean tweezers can help you gently guide it back into position. Avoid pulling or forcing it too hard—your orthodontist will handle any adjustments at your next visit.
Missing Bracket
If a bracket has fallen off completely, store it in a safe place and bring it with you to your appointment. Don’t try to reattach it yourself—DIY repairs can make things worse.
These steps allow you to stay comfortable and protect your teeth until your orthodontist can make the necessary repairs.
Common Causes of Why Braces Break
Understanding what can cause broken braces can help you avoid similar situations. Here are some of the most common culprits:
Sticky and Hard Foods
Braces and certain foods just don’t mix. Sticky candies, hard nuts, and crunchy snacks can all put unnecessary pressure on your brackets and wires.
Injuries
Sports injuries or accidental bumps can damage your braces. Wearing a mouthguard during physical activities is essential to protect your smile.
Oral Hygiene Issues
Neglecting to clean around your brackets can weaken the adhesive bond, making it easier for them to break or come loose.
Avoiding these habits can save you from unexpected trips to the orthodontist!
When to Call Your Orthodontist
Not every braces issue requires an emergency appointment, but there are some cases where you should call your orthodontist in Myrtle Beach right away. Here’s when to reach out:
- Severe pain or discomfort that doesn’t improve with temporary fixes.
- A broken wire that’s poking into your cheek or gums and causing irritation.
- Missing or detached brackets, which could delay your treatment progress.
- Swallowed braces pieces. While rare, this situation calls for immediate medical attention.
Your orthodontist at Seabreeze Orthodontics will advise you on whether you need to come in immediately or if the issue can wait until your next scheduled visit.
Tips for Maintaining Your Braces
Taking care of your braces can prevent many common problems. Here are a few simple tips to keep everything in good shape:
Stick to Braces-Friendly Foods
Soft foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, and pasta are great choices. Avoid anything hard, sticky, or chewy to keep your brackets intact.
Practice Excellent Oral Hygiene
Brush thoroughly around your brackets and wires at least twice a day. Don’t forget to floss using a floss threader to clean between your teeth.
Wear a Mouthguard
If you’re active in sports, a mouthguard is a must. It protects your braces (and your teeth!) from unexpected impacts.
Regular Checkups
Never skip your orthodontic appointments. These visits allow your orthodontist to catch and fix potential issues before they become big problems.
With a little care, you can keep your braces—and your treatment—on track.
FAQs About Broken Braces
You’re not the first person to experience broken braces, and you certainly won’t be the last. Here are some common questions answered:
Can I eat with broken braces?
Stick to soft foods until the issue is fixed to avoid further damage.
Will it hurt to fix a broken bracket?
Not usually! Your orthodontist will carefully reattach the bracket or adjust the wire with minimal discomfort.
Is breaking a bracket normal?
Yes, it happens! Orthodontists like Dr. Juan have seen it all, so there’s no need to worry or feel embarrassed.
Don’t Let Broken Braces Slow You Down
Handling broken braces doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With a little care and the right tools, you can keep things under control. You can use orthodontic wax for quick relief or make an appointment with Seabreeze Orthodontics in Myrtle Beach; there’s always a solution.
Take action today to protect your progress and keep things on track. Dr. Juan and his team are ready to assist you every step of the way. Call now to schedule your visit!