Braces are built to be strong, but they aren’t indestructible. A loose bracket, a broken wire, or a missing rubber band can be uncomfortable and may affect your treatment. The good news is that most issues can be managed at home until you visit your orthodontist. Knowing what steps to take and when to seek professional care can help prevent further complications and keep your treatment on track.

At Clemente Orthodontics, we know dealing with broken braces can be frustrating. That’s why we’re committed to providing quick, reliable care to help our patients return to their normal routines as soon as possible. As a trusted, family-run practice serving New York and New Jersey, we take a personalized approach to every patient’s needs. If something isn’t right with your braces, we’re here to help with expert guidance and efficient repairs.

What Should You Do After Noticing Your Braces Are Damaged?

If you notice your braces are broken or damaged, staying calm and taking the right steps can help prevent further discomfort or delays in your treatment. The first thing to do is assess the damage and determine how to manage it until you can see your orthodontist. Here’s what to do based on the type of issue:

Loose or detached bracket: If a bracket is loose but still attached to the wire, leave it in place and avoid touching it. If it’s completely detached, keep it in a safe place and bring it to your next appointment. Applying orthodontic wax over a loose bracket can help prevent irritation.
Broken or poking wire: Try gently pushing it back with a cotton swab or eraser. If it still pokes, cover it with orthodontic wax and avoid touching it until your appointment.
Missing or loose rubber band: If a rubber band around your bracket comes off, you can attempt to reposition it using clean tweezers. If it’s missing, let your orthodontist know at your next visit.
General discomfort or irritation: If the damaged braces are causing sore spots or irritation, rinse your mouth with warm salt water to soothe the area. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage discomfort until your orthodontist can make repairs.

Regardless of the type of damage, avoid eating hard, sticky, or crunchy foods that could make the problem worse. Most importantly, contact your orthodontist as soon as possible to schedule a repair appointment and get your treatment back on track.

How to Prevent Braces from Breaking

While braces are designed to be strong, they can still break if not handled with care. Studies show that bracket failure rates range from 6.4% to 14.65% during orthodontic treatment, with most issues occurring within the first six months. Taking a few simple precautions can help protect them and keep your treatment on schedule. Here’s how to prevent damage to your braces:

Watch what you eat: Hard, sticky, and crunchy foods—like popcorn, nuts, hard candy, and gum—can bend wires, loosen brackets, or get stuck in your braces. Stick to softer foods and cut tougher foods into smaller pieces to reduce stress on your braces.
Avoid bad habits: Biting your nails, chewing on pens or ice, and using your teeth to open packages can put unnecessary pressure on your braces and cause them to break. Be mindful of these habits and find alternative ways to relieve stress, like using a stress ball.
Wear a mouthguard for sports: A mouthguard is essential if you play contact sports or activities where there’s a risk of impact. It protects your braces and your teeth from damage during physical activity.
Practice good oral hygiene: Keeping your braces clean helps prevent plaque buildup, which can weaken the adhesive holding your brackets in place. Brush and floss carefully to keep your teeth and braces in top condition.
Follow your orthodontist’s instructions: Your orthodontist will provide specific care guidelines for your braces. Follow their advice on foods to avoid, how to clean your braces properly, and what to do if you experience discomfort.

By taking these precautions, you can reduce the risk of damage and keep your braces working effectively. If you ever notice a problem, contact your orthodontist right away to prevent further complications.

Reliable Orthodontic Care When You Need It Most

At Clemente Orthodontics, we understand broken braces can be frustrating and even uncomfortable. That’s why we’re here to provide fast, effective solutions to keep your treatment on track. Whether it’s a loose bracket, a broken wire, or general discomfort, our team is ready to help with expert care and guidance. We believe orthodontic treatment should be a smooth and stress-free experience, and we’re committed to making sure you feel comfortable and confident every step of the way.

As a trusted, family-run orthodontic practice serving New York and New Jersey, we offer quick repair services and personalized care to ensure your braces stay in top condition. If you’re dealing with a damaged appliance or have concerns about your treatment, don’t wait—reach out today. Call us at New City: (845) 638-6646 | Woodcliff Lake: (201) 484-0600 | Ridgewood: (201) 447-2888 or schedule an appointment through our contact form to get the support you need.