Orthodontic Emergencies: What to Do If Your Brackets or Wires Break

Orthodontic treatment is an exciting journey toward a healthier, straighter smile, but sometimes, unexpected issues arise. A broken bracket or poking wire can be uncomfortable and concerning. Knowing how to handle these orthodontic emergencies at home can help you stay comfortable until you visit your orthodontist.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to manage broken brackets, loose wires, and other common orthodontic mishaps—so you can keep your treatment on track!

Assess the Situation

Before taking action, take a moment to examine the issue carefully.

✔ Is the bracket completely detached or just loose? A bracket may still be attached to the wire or have fully come off the tooth.
✔ Is the wire poking your cheek or gums? Sometimes, a loose wire can cause irritation or even minor cuts inside the mouth.
✔ Is there pain or discomfort? Mild discomfort is normal, but severe pain may require immediate attention.

Handling a Loose or Broken Bracket

If a bracket becomes loose but remains attached to the wire:

🔹 Leave it in place – Don’t pull it off. It may still be providing support.
🔹 Apply orthodontic wax – Cover the loose bracket to prevent it from irritating your cheek.
🔹 Avoid hard or sticky foods – These could make the problem worse.

If a bracket has completely detached:

🔹 Keep it safe – If the bracket comes off, store it in a small container and bring it to your next appointment.
🔹 Do not try to reattach it – Only your orthodontist should reposition the bracket correctly.

Managing a Poking Wire

A broken or out-of-place wire can cause discomfort. Here’s what you can do:

✔ Use a cotton swab or eraser – Gently push the wire against your teeth to reposition it.
✔ Cover with orthodontic wax – If the wire is sharp and poking your cheek, placing wax over the tip can reduce irritation.
✔ Cut the wire (if necessary) – If it's too long and causing pain, use sterilized nail clippers to trim it.

When to Call Your Orthodontist

While minor discomfort can often be managed at home, certain situations require professional attention:

🚨 Severe pain that doesn’t improve with at-home care
🚨 A bracket that has come off completely
🚨 A wire that is deeply embedded in the gum or cheek

Experiencing an orthodontic emergency? Our team is ready to help! Call or text us to schedule an appointment.

Additional Tips for Avoiding Orthodontic Emergencies

✔ Be mindful of what you eat – Avoid crunchy, sticky, or hard foods that can damage brackets.
✔ Wear a mouthguard – If you play sports, a mouthguard can prevent injuries to your braces.
✔ Keep an orthodontic care kit handy – Include wax, a small mirror, cotton swabs, and nail clippers in case of emergencies.

A broken bracket or loose wire may seem like a big problem, but with the right steps, you can manage discomfort and prevent further damage. By handling minor emergencies at home and knowing when to contact your orthodontist, you’ll keep your smile on the right track.

If you're experiencing an orthodontic issue or need expert advice, schedule a free consultation today! Our team at Dominion Orthodontics is ready to help you maintain a comfortable, healthy treatment experience.