Breaking a part of your braces can feel frustrating and even a little scary, but it happens more often than you might think. Don’t worry—you’re not alone, and the good news is that there are steps you can take to manage the situation until you can see your orthodontist. Damaged braces can cause discomfort, but with some quick fixes, you can protect your mouth and keep your treatment on track. If you’re in Phoenix or Chandler, the team at Serrano Orthodontics, led by Dr. Andrew Serrano and Dr. Paul Serrano, is here to help.
Immediate Steps to Protect Your Mouth
When braces break, the sharp edges or loose parts can irritate your mouth. Here are a few simple actions you can take right away to stay comfortable:
- Cover sharp edges with dental wax. Dental wax is your best friend when dealing with broken wires or brackets. Roll a small piece into a ball and press it onto the sharp edge.
- Use tweezers to reposition loose brackets. If a bracket is sliding along the wire, you can gently push it into a more comfortable position.
- Trim protruding wires. If a wire is poking out, sterilize nail clippers and carefully snip off the sharp end.
- Rinse with salt water. If your mouth is irritated or has small cuts, rinsing with warm salt water can help soothe and clean the area.
Taking these steps can make a big difference in keeping your mouth comfortable and safe while you wait for your appointment with Dr. Andrew Serrano or Dr. Paul Serrano at Serrano Orthodontics in Phoenix or Chandler.
Why Braces Break
Understanding what causes braces to break can help you avoid future mishaps. Here are the most common reasons:
- Eating hard or sticky foods. Foods like popcorn, caramel, and hard candies can put too much pressure on your brackets and wires.
- Sports injuries. A stray ball or a bump during a game can damage your braces. Wearing a mouthguard during sports can prevent this.
- Chewing on non-food items. Pens, pencils, or fingernails are common culprits that can weaken braces over time.
Taking simple precautions, like choosing braces-friendly snacks and wearing protective gear during physical activities, can save you an unplanned trip to the orthodontist.
How to Heal Mouth Irritations
Broken braces can sometimes lead to cuts or sores inside your mouth. These are usually minor but can still be uncomfortable. Here’s how to speed up the healing process:
Using dental wax can help. Roll a small piece of wax and press it onto the area causing irritation to create a buffer between your braces and your mouth. If the irritation persists, rinsing with salt water is another simple and effective option. Mix a teaspoon of salt into a glass of warm water and rinse for about 30 seconds to soothe and clean the sore spots.
For more relief, you can apply a numbing gel from the drugstore. These gels provide temporary relief for sore areas and make eating and speaking more comfortable. Stick to soft foods like smoothies, mashed potatoes, and soups until your mouth feels better. By keeping things gentle and avoiding anything that could make the irritation worse, you’ll heal faster and feel better in no time.
What to Do Before Your Appointment
If you’re dealing with a broken part of your braces, it is helpful to prepare for your visit to Serrano Orthodontics.
Take a moment to jot down exactly what happened and where the issue is. This will help your orthodontist address the problem quickly. If any pieces of your braces have come off, like a bracket or a piece of wire, save them in a small plastic bag and bring them with you. While you’re waiting for your appointment, stick to soft foods and brush your teeth gently to avoid causing further damage.
Being prepared can make your visit smoother and ensure your braces are fixed properly without unnecessary delays.
Don’t Wait to Get the Care You Need
If your braces are broken, taking quick action can make all the difference in keeping your treatment on track and avoiding discomfort. Serrano Orthodontics in Phoenix and Chandler is ready to help you resolve any issues so you can get back to focusing on your smile. Dr. Andrew Serrano and Dr. Paul Serrano are committed to providing expert care and guidance every step of the way.
Call today to schedule your appointment, and let us help you get your smile back on track!