Maybe it goes without saying that metal braces are pretty sturdy. They don’t break easily, but it is possible for brackets to pop loose or wires to get bent out of shape. With that said, your next question is probably “can I fix them?”
Damaged braces can be fixed – by a professional! If you’re eyeing some compromised orthodontics, sit tight and keep reading. These tips will be much more effective than super glue!
Loose Brackets: Remove or Secure
There are two ways to handle a free-range bracket. If it’s missing adhesive and is clinging to the wire by a mere thread, gently pry it off and save it for your orthodontist. They’ll likely be able to apply new adhesive and re-attach your bracket.
If it’s more stubborn and won’t let go of the wire, leave your bracket be for now. You can stick it to your tooth with orthodontic wax until you see your orthodontist for a permanent solution. Keep in mind that in both scenarios, dental adhesive and orthodontic wax aren’t the same as store-bought glue! It makes for a poor substitute and will cause more problems than it solves.
Pokey Wire: Carefully Shift or Seal
A protruding wire can be especially uncomfortable. If it’s still securely fastened to a bracket and just sticking out at an odd angle, you might be able to nudge it back into place with a cotton swab. If this doesn’t do the trick, you can alleviate immediate chaffing with orthodontic wax. In either case, you’ll want to call your orthodontist so they can check on your wire.
Hanging Spacers: Don’t Panic
These are small, rubbery rings that sit in the gap between teeth, where you would normally floss. The idea behind them is to gently and slightly push your teeth apart so a metal band can be inserted later. Which – good news! – means that they’re meant to be temporary. Loose or fallen-out spacers typically indicate that your teeth are far enough apart to fit an orthodontic band.
Limp Bands: Leave Alone or Take with You
The band (or sometimes “molar band”) is another metal piece, but instead of being placed directly on top of your tooth, it’s wrapped around it. They’re meant to keep brackets or other braces accessories in place, so they’re important! Even though molar bands are held together with a special cement, they can come loose or fall away completely. Salvage the piece if it’s fallen out, contact your orthodontist, and do not try to reattach the band yourself.
Whatever the damage is with your metal braces, your orthodontist can take care of it. However, fixing the problem yourself could very well make a bad situation worse. Applying orthodontic wax is as much as you can do without risking further harm. So make yourself comfortable, give your orthodontist a call, and let the professionals handle the rest!
About the Practice
At Washington Dental Associates, we have several specialists on staff, including certified orthodontist Dr. Susan Roubicek. If you’re struggling with broken braces, give our office a call at 201-453-4863. We’ll fix your orthodontics as soon as possible so you can promptly enjoy life as usual!