Braces are incredibly durable, but they’re not indestructible. Whether you took an unexpected fall, were hit during a sporting event, or simply bit into something too crunchy, it’s possible for a bracket or wire to become damaged during treatment.
While a broken brace can be alarming, there’s no need to panic. Most orthodontic emergencies aren’t true emergencies, and there are simple steps you can take to stay comfortable until your orthodontist can repair your appliance.
Here’s what to do if your braces break.
Stay Calm and Assess the Damage
The first step is to take a close look at what’s happened. Not every issue requires immediate treatment, but it’s important to identify the problem.
Common types of braces damage include:
- A loose or detached bracket
- A bent or poking wire
- A broken elastic band
- A loose orthodontic band
- A wire that has slipped out of place
If you’re experiencing severe pain, heavy bleeding, or an injury to your teeth or jaw from an accident, seek immediate medical or dental care before addressing the braces themselves.
Protect Your Mouth from Sharp Edges
Broken wires and loose brackets can sometimes irritate or cut the inside of your cheeks, lips, or gums.
If a wire is poking you, place a small piece of orthodontic wax over the sharp end to create a protective barrier. If you don’t have orthodontic wax available, a small piece of sugar-free chewing gum can serve as a temporary solution until you can visit your orthodontist.
Avoid trying to cut the wire yourself unless you’ve been specifically instructed to do so by your orthodontic team.
Leave the Bracket Attached If Possible
If a bracket has come loose but is still attached to the wire, it’s usually best to leave it in place. Removing it yourself could damage the wire or accidentally create additional problems.
If the bracket has completely detached from both the tooth and wire, carefully store it in a small container or plastic bag and bring it with you to your appointment.
Your orthodontist can determine whether it can be reused or needs to be replaced.
Contact Your Orthodontist
Even if you’re not in pain, it’s important to let your orthodontist know about the damage as soon as possible.
Braces work by applying gentle, consistent pressure to your teeth. A broken bracket or wire can interrupt that process, potentially slowing your treatment if left unrepaired for too long.
When you call the office, explain:
- What part of the braces broke
- Whether you’re experiencing pain
- If the appliance is cutting your mouth
- How the damage occurred
The office can then advise you on whether you should come in immediately or schedule the next available repair appointment.
Avoid Foods That Can Make Things Worse
Until your braces are repaired, stick with soft foods that won’t place unnecessary pressure on the damaged appliance.
Choose foods like:
- Yogurt
- Mashed potatoes
- Pasta
- Soup
- Eggs
- Smoothies
- Oatmeal
Avoid sticky candy, popcorn, nuts, hard breads, raw carrots, ice, and other crunchy foods that could cause additional damage.
Prevent Future Breaks
Although accidents happen, many broken braces can be prevented by following your orthodontist’s recommendations.
Wearing a mouthguard during sports, avoiding hard and sticky foods, and resisting the temptation to chew on pens, fingernails, or ice can all help protect your braces throughout treatment.
The better you care for your braces, the more likely your treatment will stay on schedule.
A broken bracket or wire is usually a quick fix, especially when you contact your orthodontist promptly and follow their instructions.
About the Practice
The team at Serenity Orthodontics is committed to helping patients of all ages achieve healthy, beautifully aligned smiles through personalized orthodontic care. They provide traditional braces and customized treatment plans while supporting patients every step of the way—from the initial consultation to the day their new smile is complete.
Call us at (678) 879-3006 or schedule your appointment online.
