So you’ve got your braces on and are working toward a stunning new smile when you notice a wire poking your cheek. Your braces are broken, and you just can’t believe it! Don’t worry, we’ve all been there. Accidents happen, and our team at Mahlmann & Borders Orthodontics wants you to be prepared for whatever comes your way. Keep reading to learn what to do if your braces break and how we’ll help keep your treatment on track!
Things That Ruin Your Braces
Mahlmann & Borders Orthodontics uses sturdy metal and clear braces that are made to endure being in your mouth for months. When Dr. Mahlmann & Dr. Borders fit you with braces, they’ll give you some guidelines to keep your braces in shape. Ignoring these rules is the quickest way to do damage, so it’s essential to follow them from day one until you finish treatment.
One of the main culprits of damaged braces is eating hard or sticky foods. Chewing on ice, hard candies, or sticky treats can lead to brackets becoming loose or wires bending or breaking.
Accidental impact or injury, such as a fall or sports-related mishap, can also damage your braces. Additionally, neglecting proper care and maintenance, such as improper brushing or flossing techniques, can weaken your braces, making them more prone to breakage.
Recognize the Signs of Broken Braces
The first step to repairing broken braces is recognizing when there’s a problem. If you notice a loose or detached bracket, or a wire poking your cheek, don’t ignore it! You should always address issues with your braces as soon as possible to avoid any delays in your treatment.
Maintaining your regular check-ups at our Richmond office allows Dr. Mahlmann & Dr. Borders to detect these problems early and address them right away.
Steps to Take When Braces Break
If your braces break, remember to breathe. Panic can make small problems feel bigger than they are, so take a moment to calm down and remember these tips.
First, assess your situation. If a wire is protruding and causing irritation, cover it with orthodontic wax to prevent further discomfort. If a bracket becomes loose, leave it in place and avoid touching or removing it. Attempting to fix it yourself may make it worse. Rinsing your mouth with warm salt water can help alleviate irritation. Here’s what to do next:
Contact Mahlmann & Borders Orthodontics
When your braces break, you should never try to fix them yourself. Dr. Mahlmann & Dr. Borders will see you as soon as possible to correct the issues quickly and safely. If your braces break, contact our Richmond office immediately to schedule an emergency appointment. Our knowledgeable and friendly team will guide you through the next steps and ensure your braces are repaired promptly, minimizing any potential disruption to your treatment.
Temporary Relief and Self-Care Measures
While waiting for your appointment, there are temporary relief methods and self-care measures you can take in the meantime. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help alleviate any discomfort caused by broken braces. It’s essential to avoid hard, sticky, or chewy foods that can further damage the braces until they are repaired.
Using orthodontic wax to cover any sharp edges or irritations caused by broken wires or brackets can provide temporary relief. However, following the advice and recommendations of the team at Mahlmann & Borders Orthodontics is crucial to ensure proper care and avoid further complications.
Prevention Tips for Braces Breakage
Prevention is always better than dealing with broken braces. Mahlmann & Borders Orthodontics has some prevention tips to help you avoid breakage in the future:
Follow Dietary Guidelines: Adhere to the dietary restrictions provided by your orthodontist. Avoid hard, sticky, or chewy foods that can strain the braces excessively and increase the risk of breakage. Opt for softer foods that are gentle on your braces and teeth.
Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Proper brushing and flossing techniques are essential for maintaining healthy braces. Brush your teeth after every meal using a soft-bristle toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Take extra care to clean around the brackets and wires, removing any food particles or plaque buildup. Incorporate daily flossing into your routine to reach areas your toothbrush may not easily access.
Wear a Mouthguard: If you participate in physical activities or sports, protect your braces by wearing a mouthguard. A custom-fitted mouthguard can help absorb impact and prevent injuries to your braces and mouth. Consult with Dr. Mahlmann or Dr. Borders to ensure you have the correct type of mouthguard for your specific needs.
Attend Regular Check-ups: Stay committed to your appointments with our Richmond office. Regular check-ups allow your orthodontist to monitor the progress of your treatment, make any necessary adjustments, and identify any potential issues before they escalate into major problems. Timely adjustments can help prevent brace breakage and ensure the success of your orthodontic treatment.
Stay Ready for Anything with Mahlmann & Borders Orthodontics
Knowing what to do if your braces break is crucial for minimizing discomfort, preventing further damage, and maintaining the progress of your orthodontic treatment. By following these steps, you can keep your braces in great shape.
Don’t let broken braces hinder your journey to a beautiful, confident smile. Contact Mahlmann & Borders Orthodontics today to schedule a free consultation with our expert orthodontists.