Let’s face it—accidents happen, and they often have a knack for occurring out of the blue and when it’s very inconvenient! However, knowing what to do when disaster strikes will always ensure that no matter what’s happening, you have the best chance of quickly getting it under control. One situation that your orthodontist thinks you should know about is broken braces; whether it’s a snapped wire or a broken bracket, knowing what to do can ensure that your orthodontic treatment is in no long-term danger. Here are three easy-to-follow steps to keep in mind.
Step #1. Damage Control
This sounds a little more intense than it actually is; sometimes, the damage isn’t always obvious, and it might simply feel as though something’s wrong, meaning that you’ll need to do a little detective work. Calmly assess the area of your mouth where you believe the issue is, and check for damage to the brackets and wires. It’s possible for the brackets to become noticeably damaged, loose or even entirely displaced, so be thorough with your inspection. Wires can also become loose or damaged, as can other orthodontic appliances like palate spreaders and metal bands. Once you’ve identified the issue, don’t touch or test it, as you could cause further damage!
Step #2. Call Your Orthodontist
Your orthodontist is the best person for handling broken braces—after all, they’re the person who put them on your teeth in the first place! When you call them, be sure to explain what happened and describe the situation to them as best you can. They will be able to provide you with expert advice on how to handle the situation, and they’ll also let you know when you need to come in for assistance.
Step #3. Tend To Your Mouth
It’s imperative that you protect your braces from further damage during this time; this also means that you shouldn’t try to fix your braces yourself. However, you can focus on damage control by doing things that protect your mouth from additional harm and discourage further damage. You might apply orthodontic wax to a sharp or protruding wire, or an out-of-place bracket. You should also avoid hard or crunchy foods that might irritate your mouth further, as well as chewing gum. If necessary, utilize over-the-counter pain relievers, saltwater rinses, and cold compresses.
No one can anticipate breaking their braces, but by knowing what to do when a situation arises, you can easily ensure that nothing negative comes out of it and you’re quickly able to get the help you need!
About the Practice
Our team at Super Braces of Lawrence excels in providing an outstanding level of care for patients and families in the Lawrence area! We proudly offer a wide range of orthodontic services and treatments, including emergency treatment if you or a loved one has broken their braces. For more information or to schedule a visit, feel free to contact us online or over the phone: (978) 838-6542.