January 9, 2024
You never expected to do an internet search for, “What does a broken bracket look like?”, but here you are, amidst an orthodontic emergency. Yes, the journey to a perfect smile can have its bumps in the road, but fear not!
When things go awry, knowing what to do and acting swiftly can prevent minor mishaps from becoming major issues. Even with high-quality orthodontics, things can occasionally go wrong.
This article is geared to equip you with the knowledge to take control when orthodontic emergencies strike, so you can keep smiling with confidence. And if you’re currently experiencing one of these emergencies, call our office to get scheduled with one of our orthodontists.
Common Problems with Braces
Various components, including brackets, wires, and elastic bands, compose braces. While braces have a durable design, it’s not uncommon for patients to experience issues during the course of their treatment. Frequent problems include loose brackets, broken wires, and discomfort caused by rubbing braces.
However, one of the most significant concerns is a broken bracket. A broken bracket can occur due to reasons like biting into hard foods, trauma to the mouth, or even an accidental injury. It’s essential to deal with this issue promptly to avoid delays in your treatment progress.
Identifying a Broken Bracket
Knowing how to identify a broken bracket is essential in dealing with orthodontic emergencies. In some cases, you can sense that there’s something wrong with your braces. If you run your tongue across your teeth, you may feel a chipped piece or loose wiring.
Also, you might experience discomfort or soreness around the affected area. If you notice any of these signs, it’s likely that you have a broken bracket and should come see us for an adjustment.
What Does a Broken Bracket Look Like?
A broken bracket can have various appearances depending on the severity of the damage. In mild cases, the bracket may be slightly loose or tilted. You may observe a noticeable gap between the bracket and the tooth surface.
In more severe cases, the bracket may be completely detached from the tooth, dangling from the wire. It’s imperative to pay attention to any changes in the position or stability of your brackets during your oral hygiene routine. By being aware of what a broken bracket looks like, you can take the necessary steps to address issues quickly.
Handling a Broken Bracket at Home
If you have a broken bracket, it’s best to see a dentist. But you can do some things at home to ease the pain and stop it from getting worse. Here are some suggestions:
1. If the bracket is loosely attached to the wire, try carefully sliding it back into its correct position using clean tweezers or a cotton swab. Gently apply pressure to secure the bracket in place.
2. If the bracket is completely detached, remove it from your mouth to avoid accidentally swallowing it. Keep the bracket in a safe place and bring it with you to your next orthodontic appointment.
3. In the meantime, cover the exposed wire with dental wax to protect your mouth from sharp edges. Remember to avoid eating hard or sticky foods that could further damage your braces.
When to Seek Professional Help
While you can temporarily manage a broken bracket at home, it’s crucial to seek professional help as soon as possible. Contact your orthodontist and explain the situation. They’ll provide guidance on the next steps to take.
Your orthodontist will schedule an appointment for you to come in and have the bracket repaired or replaced. It’s essential not to delay seeking professional help, as prolonged exposure to a broken bracket can lead to complications and extend your treatment time.
Replacing Your Braces Bracket
When you visit your orthodontist to address a broken bracket, they’ll assess the damage and determine the best course of action. In some cases, the bracket can be reattached using dental adhesive. If the bracket is severely damaged, your orthodontist may need to replace it entirely.
They’ll carefully remove the old materials, clean the tooth surface, and attach a new one. It’s vital to follow your orthodontist’s instructions regarding oral hygiene and dietary restrictions after the replacement of the bracket. By ensuring proper care and maintenance, you can prevent future issues and keep your orthodontic treatment on track.
Caring for Your Braces After an Orthodontic Emergency
After experiencing a broken bracket, pay extra attention to your oral hygiene routine to prevent further complications. Brush your teeth using soft bristles thoroughly and floss as directed by your orthodontist. Please handle the area where the bracket was broken gently to avoid any discomfort or potential damage.
As always, continue to follow the dietary restrictions provided by your orthodontist. Avoid eating things that can put unnecessary strain on your braces. By practicing good oral hygiene and maintaining a braces-friendly diet, you can minimize the risk of more mishaps.
Preventing a Future Orthodontic Emergency
While some orthodontic emergencies are unavoidable, there are steps you can take to reduce the likelihood of encountering them. Follow these tips:
Avoid Certain Foods
We must repeat how important it is to be mindful of the foods you eat. Avoid hard and sticky foods that can damage your braces, such as popcorn, hard candies, and chewing gum. Cut your food into smaller pieces to reduce the chance of biting into something that could break your braces.
Maintain Oral Hygiene
Practice good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly. This helps to prevent plaque buildup, which can weaken the adhesive that bonds your brackets to your teeth.
Wear A Mouth Guard
Wear a mouth guard if you participate in contact sports or any activities that may pose a risk to your braces. Doing so will add a protective barrier around your teeth and minimize potential breakage.
Keep Your Smile Intact
What does a broken bracket look like? Well, hopefully, we answered that question for you! Although you can’t always prevent an orthodontic emergency, you should definitely know how to handle one.
If you’re ever in need of bracket repair for your braces, we’re here to help. South Shore Orthodontics offers expert-level service that can’t be beaten. Our board-certified orthodontists, Dr. Matt, and Dr. Mary, stay current on orthodontic techniques and technology.
To inquire more, call us today at 813-815-0080, or contact us online. We look forward to speaking with you!