Breaking a bracket might sound serious, but it’s a common orthodontic issue — and it can be fixed quickly with the help of your dental team. Whether it happens while eating or brushing, here’s what Canadian patients should know about what to do next.
🩺 What Causes a Bracket to Break?
- Biting into hard or sticky foods (like popcorn, nuts, or caramel)
- Sports-related impacts without a mouthguard
- Chewing on objects (pens, fingernails)
- Flossing or brushing too aggressively
⚠️ What to Do Right Away
- Stay calm — a broken bracket is not a dental emergency
- Check the damage: Is the bracket still attached to the wire? Is it loose or spinning?
- Avoid moving it or trying to fix it yourself
- Use orthodontic wax to cover any sharp edges and prevent irritation
- Call your orthodontist to book a repair appointment
🛌 Why You Shouldn’t Wait Too Long
- A broken bracket can:
- Delay your treatment progress
- Cause discomfort or sores inside your mouth
- Affect how your teeth are moving
- The sooner it’s repaired, the better your outcome.
🚬 Preventing Bracket Breaks
- Avoid foods on your orthodontist’s “no-chew” list
- Wear a mouthguard for contact sports
- Be gentle with your oral hygiene tools
Break a bracket? Don’t worry. Contact McLevin Dental and we’ll get it repaired quickly — so you stay on track with your orthodontic treatment.