If you’ve accidentally broken a bracket, snapped a wire or compromised your braces in some other way, you might be starting to worry that your treatment is totally jeopardized. Fortunately, these scenarios are more common than you may realize and are also easily remedied with a little quick thinking coupled with the help of your orthodontist. Keep reading to learn a little more about a few steps you should take if you break your braces so that you can ensure your treatment isn’t derailed.
1. Evaluate the Damage
The first step is to calmly assess the area of your mouth with the broken appliance. Has a bracket become loose or displaced? Has one of your wires snapped? Once you find the root of the problem, it might be tempting to touch it and test the device, but it’s best to refrain from doing so in order to prevent more possible damage. It’s also important to remain calm here; these things can happen whether you intend for them to or not, but in any case, a clear head will allow you to think and react accordingly.
2. Contact Your Orthodontist
The next, and perhaps most crucial step, is to contact your dentist or orthodontist. You’ll be able to explain the situation and ask for advice, and they’ll give you steps to follow and tell you if and when you need to come in for assistance. Not every situation is urgent, and it’s possible that you might not need to come in until your next regularly scheduled checkup. In any case, don’t assume anything before contacting your provider!
3. Tend to Your Mouth
No matter when your appointment is, you can still take measures immediately to tend to your mouth. Unfortunately, you can’t simply glue a bracket back on or replace a broken wire yourself; however, you can use orthodontic wax to cover up damaged brackets or protruding wires and prevent further irritation or discomfort. If you have a wire out of place, you might also try gently using a cotton swab to reposition it. Of course, you can also utilize over-the-counter pain relievers, cold compresses, and saltwater rinses to alleviate mild discomfort.
Your first instinct upon breaking your braces might be to panic, but you should instead take a deep breath and follow these steps; your treatment plan should remain right on track!
About the Practice
Here at Simply Orthodontics Dayville, we’re thrilled to offer patients and families an exceptional level of care. Under the expert leadership of Dr. Sam Alkhoury and Dr. Triny Gutierrez, we provide a wide range of orthodontic services. If you or a loved one has broken their braces and is in need of assistance, don’t hesitate to contact us today: (860) 774-2008.