Dealing with broken braces can feel stressful, especially if it happens at an inconvenient moment. Whether you’re enjoying your favorite crunchy snack or simply brushing your teeth, accidents can happen—but don’t worry! Dr. Manley at Christian Manley Orthodontics, serving Sammamish and Issaquah, can help you through this situation step by step.
Stay Calm and Assess the Situation
The first step in handling broken braces is to take a moment to breathe and assess what’s going on. Panicking won’t help, but a calm approach will make it easier to figure out your next steps.
Here’s what to check for:
- Bracket Damage: Is the bracket loose, completely detached, or still hanging on?
- Wires: Are there wires poking your cheeks or gums, or are they bent out of place?
- Other Issues: Do you notice any additional discomfort or areas of concern?
Once you’ve taken stock of the damage, you’ll have a clearer idea of what needs attention. Let’s move on to how you can ease any discomfort.
Quick Fixes to Feel Better and Ease Discomfort
A broken bracket or wire can cause irritation, but a few simple tricks can help make you more comfortable until you can see Dr. Christian Manley.
Use Orthodontic Wax
If you notice a wire poking your cheek or gums, gently push it back into place using the eraser end of a pencil. Then, cover the area with orthodontic wax to create a smooth barrier and protect your soft tissues.
Try a Saltwater Rinse
For irritated spots inside your mouth, a warm saltwater rinse can help soothe the discomfort and prevent further irritation.
Avoid Touching the Area
It can be tempting to poke or fiddle with the broken bracket or wire, but this can make things worse. Try to leave the damaged area alone to avoid causing additional discomfort or further dislodging the braces.
With these tips, you can keep discomfort at bay and protect your mouth until it’s time to visit us.
Contact Our Team With any Questions or Discomfort
One of the most important steps is letting us know what happened. Call or text our office in Sammamish or Issaquah as soon as possible. When you reach out, provide details about the damage—for example, whether a bracket is completely off or if you’ve noticed a poking wire. This helps us determine how soon you need to come in.
During your emergency appointment, Dr. Manley will carefully assess your braces and make any necessary repairs. Fixing the issue quickly ensures your orthodontic treatment stays on track.
Eating with Broken Braces: Do’s and Don’ts
Waiting for your orthodontist appointment doesn’t mean you need to skip meals entirely, but you’ll want to adjust your diet to avoid further damage.
Here’s what to eat:
- Soft foods like mashed potatoes, yogurt, or pudding.
- Steamed vegetables or tender proteins like scrambled eggs.
- Smoothies or soups that don’t require much chewing.
Avoid these foods:
- Crunchy snacks like chips or popcorn.
- Sticky treats like caramel or gum.
- Hard foods like nuts or raw carrots.
Being mindful of what you eat can protect your braces and keep you comfortable until your visit.
Tips to Prevent Future Breakage
While accidents happen, there are a few things you can do to reduce the likelihood of broken braces in the future.
Be Careful with Food Choices
Stick to braces-friendly foods that are soft and easy to chew. When you’re tempted by harder snacks, remember the inconvenience of a broken bracket and opt for a safer alternative instead.
Use the Right Tools
Avoid using your teeth to open packaging or bottles—this puts unnecessary pressure on your braces and can lead to damage.
Keep Up with Appointments
Routine orthodontic checkups help us catch any weak spots or issues before they turn into emergencies. Staying consistent with visits also ensures your braces are in great shape throughout treatment.
Broken Braces? Here’s How to Handle It
A broken bracket or wire might feel like a setback, but fixing it is simpler than you think. Call Dr. Christian Manley at Christian Manley Orthodontics in Sammamish and Issaquah, and we’ll schedule an appointment to get everything back in place. Your smile is important, and we’re here to help you keep moving toward the results you deserve.