Oh no! Your braces have come apart! What’s next? Experiencing broken braces can be an unexpected and unpleasant surprise, but don’t fret – Dr. Periago and the fantastic team at Periago Orthodontics have got you covered! In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the steps you should take if your braces break and offer valuable advice to prevent future issues. So, if you’re a patient in New Albany, Corydon, or Floyds Knobs, keep reading for our expert guidance on handling broken braces. At Periago Orthodontics, we provide many orthodontic solutions, including metal and clear braces, to help you achieve that picture-perfect smile! Now, what do you do if your braces break? Let’s guide you through it.
Common causes of broken braces
Before we dive into what to do if your braces break, let’s take a moment to understand the common causes behind broken braces. By knowing what to watch out for, you can help prevent future issues:
- Sticky, chewy, or hard foods: Biting into hard foods such as apples, nuts, or popcorn can cause braces to break or come loose. Sticky stuff like caramel, chewing gum, or toffee can also get up your braces, causing damage. Chewy foods put undue pressure on the appliances, breaking the bond of the braces to the enamel surface over time.
- Trauma to the mouth: Accidents or injuries during sports or other activities can cause braces to break if there is a substantial impact on your face or mouth.
- Oral habits: Biting nails, chewing on pens, or using teeth to open packages can place undue strain on the braces and cause them to break.
- Poor oral hygiene: Insufficient cleaning can lead to plaque buildup, which can weaken the braces and cause them to break.
- Normal wear and tear: Braces may experience wear and tear over time, which can cause them to break. Regular check-ups with Dr. Periago will help promptly address any potential issues.
What to do if your braces break
If you find yourself with broken braces, here’s what you should do:
- Stay calm: It’s important to stay calm and assess the situation. Determine which part of your braces has broken, such as a bracket, wire, or band.
- Check for discomfort or pain: If you’re experiencing pain or discomfort, try rinsing your mouth with warm saltwater to soothe the area. You can also use orthodontic wax to cover any sharp edges that may be causing irritation.
- Contact Periago Orthodontics: Reach out to our office as soon as possible to report the issue and schedule an appointment. With convenient locations in New Albany, Corydon, and Floyds Knobs, we’re here to serve you better.
- Follow Dr. Periago’s instructions: Dr. Periago may provide specific instructions on caring for your broken braces until your appointment. Be sure to follow these instructions closely to avoid further damage.
- Keep the area clean: Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing around the broken braces, being extra gentle to avoid causing further damage.
Prevention: keeping your braces in top condition
Taking steps to prevent future breaks can help ensure a smooth and efficient orthodontic treatment. Follow Dr. Periago’s tips to keep your braces in tip-top shape:
- Braces-friendly diet: Avoid foods that can cause damage to your braces (remember, nothing hard, sticky, or chewy). Opt for softer options like steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, and yogurt. Cut larger items, like apples or carrots, into smaller pieces before eating.
- Protective gear for sports and activities: If you play sports or engage in other activities that may pose a risk to your braces, consider wearing a mouthguard to protect your teeth and orthodontic appliances.
- Breaking bad oral habits: Keep in mind not to use your teeth as tools, bite your nails, or chew on objects that can damage your braces. If necessary, seek help to overcome these habits.
- Maintaining good oral hygiene: Brush and floss regularly to keep your braces clean and free from plaque buildup. Use fluoride toothpaste and an interdental brush or floss threader to clean your braces effectively.
- Regular check-ups with Dr. Periago: Visit our office regularly for adjustments and inspections to ensure your braces are in good condition and your treatment is on track.
- Follow your orthodontist’s instructions: Dr. Periago might provide additional instructions or recommendations. Adhere to her advice to minimize the risk of breaking your braces.
Trust Periago Orthodontics for exceptional care
At Periago Orthodontics, we understand that accidents can happen. We’re committed to helping our patients in New Albany, Corydon, and Floyds Knobs navigate any challenges that may arise during their orthodontic treatment. We offer a variety of orthodontic solutions for kids, teens, and adults, including clear braces and metal braces.
Our experienced professionals are dedicated to providing exceptional care and support throughout your orthodontic journey. If you ever encounter issues with your braces or have concerns about your treatment, don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to help you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile!
Dealing with broken braces can be stressful, but understanding the common causes and preventing future breaks can minimize the risk of damage to your orthodontic appliances. If you experience a break, remember to stay calm, assess the situation, and contact Dr. Periago and the team at Periago Orthodontics as soon as possible. We’re here to assist you in attaining the smile you’ve always desired! Schedule a free consultation today.