To address misalignment, traditional braces use metal brackets and wires to gradually guide your teeth into a healthier, more aesthetically pleasing position. Although these appliances are incredibly durable, they are by no means indestructible. In fact, one bad fall or one rogue ball during a sports game can result in an orthodontic emergency, like a loose bracket or protruding wires. If you find yourself with broken braces, do your best not to panic. Instead, follow the below steps!
#1. Assess the Damage & Call Your Orthodontist
Priority number one in any orthodontic emergency is to assess the damage. This will help you determine how urgent your situation is. For example, a protruding wire that has cut the inside of your cheek is more serious than a loose bracket that is annoying, but pain-free. Once you have taken note of which part of your braces has broken and any damage it has caused, you can give your orthodontist’s office a call. From there, they will schedule a time for you to come in for treatment.
#2. Use Dental Wax to Protect the Soft Tissue
Whether you have a couple of hours until your appointment or a few days, the last thing you want to do is to cause further damage in the meantime. To prevent your brackets and wires from irritating or cutting your lips and gums, place dental wax over any sharp edges. Since the material is water-resistant, it will stay in place until your visit!
#3. Rinse Periodically with Salt and Warm Water
Preventing infection is crucial. Fortunately, salt and water are two household ingredients that create a natural disinfectant when combined. All you have to do is dissolve some salt in warm water and rinse with the mixture! Plus, this concoction has the added bonus of reducing puffiness and inflammation.
#4. Avoid Chewing Hard and Gummy Foods
If you get hungry before it’s time for your appointment, do your best to stick to soft foods that require little-to-no chewing power. Things like yogurt and oatmeal are easy to eat, will fill you up, and are packed with nutrients. Foods to avoid include peanut brittle, raw veggies, crunchy bread, and sour gummies.
Dealing with broken braces can be anxiety-inducing. The good news is that it’s an orthodontic emergency your orthodontist can seamlessly handle! So, do your best not to stress until your appointment. Instead, stay calm and follow the above best practices.
About the Author
Dr. Dennis Sherman has been helping patients on their journeys to healthy, happy smiles for more than three decades now! He completed both his dental doctorate and post-graduate training in orthodontics at the Tufts University School of Dental Medicine. To continue to provide those in his treatment chair with only the best, he maintains an active membership with notable organizations, like the American Dental Association and the American Association of Orthodontists. If you find yourself in the middle of an orthodontic emergency or are simply interested in scheduling an appointment, don’t hesitate to visit his website or give him a call at 617-698-8883.