Braces are a common way to straighten teeth and improve your smile. But like any other medical device, they can sometimes break. If a bracket breaks, it's important to know what to do next.
What to Do if a Bracket Breaks
The first thing you should do is call your orthodontist. They will be able to assess the situation and tell you what needs to be done. In the meantime, there are a few things you can do to keep your teeth clean and protect your mouth:
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Remove the broken bracket. If possible, remove the broken bracket carefully with tweezers. If you can't remove it yourself, don't worry. Your orthodontist will be able to remove it for you.
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Rinse your mouth. Rinse your mouth with warm salt water to remove any food debris or bacteria.
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Cover the sharp edges. If the broken bracket has sharp edges, cover them with a piece of wax or sugar-free gum until you can see your orthodontist.
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Avoid hard foods. Don't eat hard foods, such as nuts or candy, until your bracket is fixed. These foods could damage your teeth or other brackets.
What to Expect at Your Appointment
When you see your orthodontist, they will examine your mouth and determine the best course of action. In most cases, they will simply replace the broken bracket. However, if the break is more serious, they may need to make some adjustments to your treatment plan.
Prevention
There are a few things you can do to prevent your brackets from breaking:
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Avoid hard foods. As mentioned above, hard foods can damage your brackets.
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Don't play with your braces. It's tempting to play with your braces, but this can also damage them.
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Keep your mouth clean. Good oral hygiene is important for preventing any problems with your braces, including broken brackets.
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See your orthodontist regularly. Regular checkups will help to ensure that your braces are in good condition and that your treatment is progressing as planned.
Restoration Dentistry
If a broken bracket damages your tooth, your orthodontist may refer you to a restorative dentist. Restorative dentists specialize in repairing teeth that have been damaged or decayed. They may need to perform a filling, crown, or other procedure to restore your tooth.
Conclusion
A broken bracket is not a major problem, but it's important to take care of it right away. By following the tips above, you can keep your teeth clean and protect your mouth until you can see your orthodontist.
About | Orthodontist Temecula CA Learn more about orthodontic practice in Temecula, CA, on our website. Info on Dr. Christopher Roncone, board certification, FAQ's & more! Roncone Orthodontics - Dr. Christopher Roncone, 32140 Temecula Pkwy, ste 201, Temecula, CA 92592 ^ (951) 595-8291 ^ ronconeortho.com ^ 11/12/2025 ^ Related Terms: Orthodontist Temecula CA ^
Braces are a common way to straighten teeth and improve your smile. But like any other medical device, they can sometimes break. If a bracket breaks, it's important to know what to do next.