If you notice any visible damage to your braces’ wires, bands, or brackets, it’s crucial to schedule an appointment with your trusted orthodontist promptly. Even if you aren’t experiencing pain, it’s best to get checked within a day or two to prevent further issues.
Damage to braces can happen for several reasons, such as:
- Eating hard or sticky foods
- Injury or trauma to your face
- Biting on non-food objects
Here’s a guide to some common orthodontic emergencies you might encounter:
Loose Brackets
Brackets are the small metal or ceramic pieces bonded to your teeth with dental adhesive. If both the bracket and archwire feel loose, it might mean the adhesive didn’t set properly. While this isn’t an urgent emergency, you should call your orthodontist soon.
If a bracket has shifted around the wire, gently reposition it and apply orthodontic wax to hold it temporarily until your appointment.
Loose Bands
Bands are metal rings cemented around teeth. Although a loose band doesn’t cause immediate harm, delaying treatment can lead to white spots (decalcification) or tooth decay. This happens because bacteria can sneak under the band, producing acids that damage enamel.
Contact your orthodontist right away if a band feels loose. They can re-cement or replace it. If a band falls out completely, keep it safe and don’t try to reattach it yourself.
Broken or Irritating Wires
Broken archwires are a frequent concern. A sharp or poking wire can irritate your cheeks or gums. You can carefully use tweezers or a pencil eraser to tuck the wire away from soft tissues. If that’s not possible, cover the end with a small ball of orthodontic wax for relief.
Remember, these are short-term fixes. Be sure to call your orthodontist to schedule a repair.
If you accidentally swallow any part of your braces, reach out for advice. Usually, these small pieces pass safely, but it’s always best to check.
If you ever have questions or concerns about your braces, don’t hesitate to contact your caring orthodontic team.