Braces are built to last, but from time to time, a wire may poke out or a bracket might break — especially if you’ve eaten something hard or sticky. While it’s usually not an emergency, it’s important to know how to handle it until you can see your orthodontist.
Here’s what Canadian patients should do if part of their braces breaks.
⚠️ Step 1: Assess the Situation
- Is the wire poking your cheek or gum?
- Is the bracket still attached to the wire or completely loose?
- Are you in pain or just uncomfortable?
Understanding the issue helps guide the next step.
🛌 Step 2: Temporary At-Home Relief
- Use orthodontic wax to cover sharp edges
- Clip the wire with clean nail clippers (only if it’s sticking out and can’t be covered)
- Rinse with warm salt water if your mouth feels irritated
- Avoid hard foods until it’s repaired
- Do not try to glue a bracket back or bend a wire back into place.
🚑 Step 3: Call Your Orthodontist
Even if there’s no pain, call McLevin Dental to:
- Schedule a repair appointment
- Prevent treatment delays
- Avoid further damage to your braces or teeth
🪠 Prevention Tips
- Follow the list of foods to avoid
- Wear a mouthguard during sports
- Brush and floss gently around brackets and wires
Break a wire or bracket? Don’t panic. Call McLevin Dental for advice and a prompt fix — we’ll keep your treatment on track with minimal disruption.