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The brackets and wires that make up traditional braces can become damaged in a variety of different ways. This can mean discomfort, and it’s important that you take all the proper steps to get it fixed as soon as you can. After all, you don’t want to delay the progress of your orthodontic treatment. Continue reading to learn which steps you should take if you find yourself in this situation.
Be Careful When Eating
You should do your best to avoid eating gummy or hard foods until you’re able to get your braces fixed. These items can further break appliances, pull them off the teeth, and cause additional irritation to surrounding tissues. Until you can get your braces fixed, stick to soft foods that are easy to chew so you aren’t causing any further damage.
Use Orthodontic Wax
This can be purchased at pretty much any drugstore or supermarket in the dental section. Orthodontic wax can be used to cover up any parts of your braces that are poking uncomfortably against your cheeks, gums, and lips. It is perfectly safe to use and completely harmless if you accidentally swallow it. This way, you can avoid developing sores, infections, or lacerations.
Use a Saltwater Rinse
Warm saltwater rinses are great for patients who are experiencing pain, swelling, or mouth irritation. They can help to bring down swelling and heal cuts and sores inside the mouth. Just add a half teaspoon of salt to a cup of warm water and mix them together. Swish it around your mouth like a mouthwash for about 30 to 60 seconds.
Bring All Broken Materials with You
If part of your braces has come out of your mouth completely, you should bring it with you to your visit. In some cases, certain materials can be cleaned and reused without having to use new materials. This can help you save both time and money.
Don’t Try to Fix Your Braces
It may be tempting to save a visit to the dental office and try to fix your braces yourself using superglue or another adhesive, but this isn’t the best idea. These items aren’t meant to be used in the mouth, and you could end up damaging your braces or smile even more! Instead, schedule an emergency appointment by calling your dental office. This way, they can see you as soon as possible.
Broken braces are frustrating, but by following the steps listed above, your orthodontic treatment will be back in progress in no time!
About the Practice
At Island Daily Dental Care, we have a team of five dentists serving the Medford community. With their combined experience and expertise, patients can get pretty much anything they need in one convenient location. To learn more about orthodontics or to schedule an appointment at our office, visit our website or call (631) 286-9000.