Braces are built to be durable, but sometimes it happens. A broken brace (or bracket) can occur from biting into something hard or sticky, playing sports without a mouthguard, or even just normal wear and tear. While it may feel stressful at first, the orthodontic specialists at Mizrahi Orthodontics, led by Dr. Mizrahi, want you to know that it’s a common issue and one you can handle with the right steps at our Brooklyn office.
Why do Braces “Break”?
Brackets are small, precise appliances attached to each tooth to guide movement. They are bonded with a strong adhesive, but they’re not indestructible. Common causes of a broken bracket include:
- Eating crunchy or sticky foods like popcorn, bagels, or caramel
- Sports injuries, especially without a mouthguard
- Chewing on hard items like pens, pencils, or fingernails
- Accidental bumps to the mouth
- Teeth grinding or clenching
Living in Brooklyn, it’s easy to grab a slice of crunchy pizza crust in Bensonhurst at L&B Spumoni Gardens or a fresh bagel from Kaff Bakery in Midwood, but those foods can be tough on braces. Knowing which foods to avoid goes a long way in preventing issues.
What To Do Right Away
When a bracket breaks, it’s important to act quickly to prevent discomfort and keep your orthodontic treatment at Mizrahi Orthodontics on track. Here’s what to do:
1. Check the Bracket and Wire
Look in a mirror to see if the bracket is still attached to the wire or if it has completely come off. If it’s loose but hanging on, try to slide it back into place.
2. Manage Any Irritation
A broken bracket or loose wire can rub against your cheeks or gums. Orthodontic wax, available at our office or most drugstores, is the easiest solution. Simply roll a small piece into a ball and place it over the sharp area. Rinsing with warm salt water can also ease soreness.
3. Avoid Problem Foods
Stick to soft foods until we can fix the bracket. Soups, yogurt, scrambled eggs, and pasta are good options. Skip anything crunchy or chewy that could cause more damage.
4. Call Mizrahi Orthodontics
Even if you aren’t in pain, call our Brooklyn office as soon as you notice a broken bracket on your braces. We’ll tell you if it needs immediate attention or if it can wait until your next scheduled appointment.
When Is It an Emergency?
Most of the time, a broken braces bracket isn’t an emergency. However, there are situations where you should call right away:
- The wire is poking painfully into your cheek or gums
- The bracket has completely come off and could be swallowed
- Multiple brackets have broken at once
- You’re experiencing severe pain or bleeding
If you’re unsure, give our team a call. We’ll guide you on whether you need to come in immediately.
How to Prevent Future Bracket Breaks
The best approach is prevention. A few simple habits can help protect your braces:
- Follow the food guidelines your orthodontist provides
- Wear a mouthguard during sports or recreational activities
- Avoid biting directly into hard foods and cut them into smaller pieces instead
- Don’t chew on ice, fingernails, or pens
- Keep up with regular checkups at Mizrahi Orthodontics
These small changes can make a big difference in keeping your braces safe and your treatment moving forward.
What Happens if You Don’t Fix a Broken Braces Bracket?
Leaving a damaged bracket untreated can affect your treatment progress. Braces work by applying steady, controlled pressure, and when a bracket is loose or missing, that tooth is no longer moving as it should. Over time, this could cause delays, shifting in the wrong direction, or the need for extra treatment.
Our goal is to keep your treatment as efficient as possible at Mizrahi Orthodontics. Calling us when a bracket breaks ensures we can keep your smile on track.
Tips for Parents of Kids with Braces
Parents often notice broken brackets before their kids do. If your child comes home from school or sports practice with a loose bracket, here’s what you can do:
- Check for irritation and apply orthodontic wax if needed
- Encourage soft foods until the appointment
- Call our office to schedule a visit
- Remind them gently about avoiding foods that could cause another break
Kids in Brooklyn love snacks like bagels, pretzels or candy from Ouris, but these are common culprits for bracket problems. A quick review of braces-friendly foods can prevent repeat issues.
Supporting Brooklyn Patients
We know life is busy, whether you’re commuting through Downtown Brooklyn, taking your kids to Prospect Park, or running errands in Midwood and Flatbush. That’s why our team makes every effort to schedule appointments quickly and conveniently. A broken bracket doesn’t have to derail your day or your orthodontic progress.
Get Help for a Broken Braces Bracket
If you’re dealing with a bracket that is damaged in any way, remember it’s a common issue and nothing to panic about. Use orthodontic wax for comfort, avoid hard foods, and call Mizrahi Orthodontics to schedule an appointment in our centrally located Brooklyn office. Dr. Mizrahi, Dr. Mosery, Dr. Kristal, and Dr. Zar are here to help you stay comfortable and keep your treatment on track.
