Broken brackets and wires are no fun, especially if it means you’re missing out on time enjoying holiday feasts with family and friends, or stressing about whether your teeth will shift before you can get your braces repaired. Luckily, there are a few sure-fire ways to protect your braces (and your teeth!) as much as possible.

  • Using orthodontic wax to prevent rubbing on your cheeks and gums
  • Avoiding crunchy, hard, sticky foods that are prone to inflict disaster on braces
  • Brush and floss gently and consistently to keep your braces in tip-top condition

If you’ve fallen victim to a broken bracket and an exposed wire, your orthodontist should be able to fix you right up, but if you have to wait a while to be seen you can find some reprieve in taking advantage of the tips below.

Use Orthodontic Wax

Orthodontic wax is a great starting spot to protect your mouth in the event of a broken bracket or escapee wire. It is a soft, pliable material that is used to cover the ends of wires or brackets on braces that are causing irritation or discomfort to the lips, cheeks, or tongue. To use orthodontic wax, begin by washing your hands to remove dirt and then pull a pea-sized amount of wax from the cartridge and squeeze it a few times to soften it. Locate the broken or exposed bracket or wire, place the wax over the irritation to provide a smooth, protective barrier.

It is important to pay attention to the problem area, since the wax will wear off over time and if the bracket or wire is exposed, it may lead to a sore in your mouth.

Avoid Crunchy, Hard, Sticky Foods

As a braces-wearer, you already know you need to be mindful of the type of foods you eat. It is important to avoid crunchy, hard, sticky foods to protect the integrity of your braces and prevent damage to the teeth and gums. Hard foods, such as raw carrots, and nuts can break or loosen brackets and wires. Crunchy food such as popcorn, crackers and chips may also have the same effect. Sticky candies, treats and gum should also be avoided so as not to damage your brackets or wires.

These foods can make cleaning your teeth more difficult and may increase the risk of tooth decay or gum disease. By avoiding questionable foods and opting for softer, easier to chew options instead, you will be doing your dental health a favor and protecting your braces at the same time!

Use Care When Brushing and Flossing

Brushing and flossing are the best practices you can commit to while you have braces. Unfortunately, both tasks can feel difficult and inconvenient to execute properly, as food particles and plaque can become trapped in the brackets and wires so easily. However, if these particles are not removed, they can lead to tooth decay and gum disease. Daily brushing and flossing helps to remove particles and prevent dental problems. It may take a bit of extra time and effort to brush and floss with braces, but the benefits of maintaining good oral hygiene will be well worth it when you see your sparkling, new smile!

Contact Your Fort Worth Orthodontist

Getting braces is a big step to take and you want to be sure you’re in the best hands possible when you commit to them for yourself or your child. Ahava Orthodontics is the area’s most trusted team, led by Dr. Barron and his staff who are ready, willing and able to tackle any broken braces issue that comes up. Ahava is committed to providing intentional, gentle orthodontic care to see you through the full spectrum of orthodontic treatment. Call our office today at 817-926-9777 to set up your first appointment!