What should you do about broken braces or wires?
The problems that arise from having braces are
- having broken braces or brackets
- having loose bands
- having loose braces
- having wires stick out
If you are having any of these problems then you must set an appointment with your orthodontist right away. You must call your orthodontist and discuss the problem. You may need to visit your orthodontist immediately in order to have the problem fixed as soon as possible. In some cases, you may be able to fix the problem yourself. If the problem with your braces was a result of another injury then you must seek immediate help.
What can you do about broken braces or wires?
Braces, bands, or wires can sometimes break and fall off. More often, some of the parts will simply become loose. This may cause discomfort. Here are some of the few problems you may encounter
- loose braces - the braces or the brackets are the metal or ceramic pieces that are attached to your teeth. They are glued using a material called composite resin. It is a similar material used for some fillings. When you chew hard food or sticky food then this resin can become weak or may even break. When this happens, the bracket can become loose. These can poke into your gums, tongue, and cheek. When you first get your braces, your orthodontist will apply a special wax. This wax can be put over the bracket so that it won't poke you. This can provide some comfort until your next orthodontist appointment
- loose bands - bands are metal rings that are cemented at the back of the teeth and sometimes even at the front teeth. If a band becomes loose, you must call your orthodontist for a replacement or a re-cementing. If the band comes off completely then you should not try to put it back. Instead, you should bring it to your next orthodontist appointment
- protruding or broken wires - this is one of the most common problems with braces. If a wire breaks or if it sticks out, it can hurt your cheek, tongue, or gums. You can use the eraser end of a pencil to push the wire back into a better position. If that does not work then you should put a small amount of orthodontic wax on the end of the wire. You should not cut the wire. This cut wire can be accidentally swallowed or inhaled. If the wire has caused a sore then you should rinse your mouth with warm saltwater or with an antiseptic rinse. This keeps the area clean and reduces any discomfort. Use an over-the-counter pain reliever like Anbesol to temporarily numb the area. If the pain does not get any better or if the sore seems to get worse then you must contact your orthodontist
- loose spacer - spacers or separators are the rubber rings that are put between your teeth. They are left in place for a couple of days. They open a small space between your teeth so that the orthodontic bands can slip into teeth with lesser effort. Spring or brass wires are sometimes used for this purpose. There are times where spacers can slip out of position and fall out. You should set an appointment with your orthodontist and have them replaced.
What will your orthodontist do about broken braces?
Broken brackets, loose bands, and loose wires aren't much of a problem and can easily be repaired. There are times where your orthodontist will adjust, reposition, or reattach the existing wires or brackets. There are times where your orthodontist will simply replace the brackets or the wires.
If you are having a problem with the brackets, bands, or wires then you must let your orthodontist know about it immediately. Your orthodontist may decide to see you before your next regular appointment in order to fix the problem right away. If this isn't done then some time will be set aside on your next appointment to fix the problem.