At Ahava Orthodontics in Fort Worth, we help patients protect their braces by sharing easy-to-follow habits that reduce the risk of broken brackets and keep treatment on schedule.

Broken brackets are one of the most common setbacks during braces treatment—and they can lead to delayed results, added appointments, and unnecessary discomfort. The good news is that most bracket damage is completely avoidable with the right care at home. Our team at Ahava Orthodontics works closely with each patient to ensure they understand how to keep their braces safe and functioning between visits.

What Causes Brackets to Break?

Brackets are small but powerful tools. Bonded directly to the surface of each tooth, they work with wires and other components to move your teeth into alignment. But as strong as they are, they aren’t indestructible.

Here are the most common causes of broken brackets:

  • Eating hard or sticky foods like popcorn, nuts, caramel, or ice

  • Biting into tough or crunchy foods such as raw vegetables or crusty bread

  • Chewing on non-food objects like pens, fingernails, or straws

  • Playing sports without a mouthguard

  • Injury to the face or mouth

  • Improper brushing technique that loosens the adhesive

Once a bracket breaks, it can stop the tooth from moving or even reverse progress. That’s why taking preventive steps is so important.

How to Avoid Broken Brackets

Braces-Safe Eating Habits to Prevent Damage

What you eat—and how you eat it—plays a big role in keeping your braces intact. Some of the most common broken brackets happen when patients bite into foods that are too hard or chewy.

To avoid damage:

  • Cut crunchy foods into small pieces and chew them with your back teeth

  • Steam or cook raw vegetables so they’re softer

  • Avoid sticky candies, gum, and caramel

  • Skip hard snacks like nuts, pretzels, and ice

Stick to soft, braces-friendly options like pasta, smoothies, rice, cooked veggies, bananas, and yogurt. These keep your brackets safe while still letting you enjoy a variety of meals and snacks.

Protective Habits Beyond the Dinner Table

Outside of eating, there are a few simple habits that can save your brackets from damage. One of the most important is protecting your braces during physical activity.

  • Always wear a mouthguard when playing sports, even non-contact ones like baseball or gymnastics.

  • Avoid using your teeth as tools (tearing packages, biting fingernails, etc.)

  • Don’t fidget with wires or brackets—even gently pushing them with your tongue can loosen them over time.

Teaching these habits to younger patients can go a long way in preventing recurring issues with their braces.

What to Do If a Bracket Breaks

If a bracket does break, don’t panic. It’s not a dental emergency, but it does need attention. Call our office and we’ll guide you on whether it needs a same-day repair or can wait until your next appointment.

In the meantime:

  • Use orthodontic wax to cover any sharp edges

  • Save the bracket if it comes off completely

  • Avoid eating anything hard or chewy until it’s repaired

Our team at Ahava Orthodontics can quickly fix the issue and get your treatment back on track.

When You Need Support, Ahava Orthodontics Has Your Back

If you’re looking for guidance on how to avoid broken brackets, our team at Ahava Orthodontics is always here to help. We know that protecting your braces is key to finishing your treatment on time—and with the best results possible.

Whether it’s your child’s first set of braces or you’re wearing them as an adult, we’ll walk you through the daily habits that make a difference. With personalized support and expert care from your trusted Fort Worth orthodontist, we’re committed to making your smile journey smooth, successful, and stress-free.

Need help or have questions? Contact us today and let us help you keep your braces—and your smile—on track.