Reasons Why Brackets Fall Off and How to Handle It.
Brackets are the small metal or ceramic pieces that bond to the tooth and hold the wire in place. These brackets can sometimes fall off, but are easily replaced. Read below to see what you can do to prevent brackets from falling off, and what steps to take if they do.
What Causes Brackets to Fall Off?
Several factors can contribute to broken or loose brackets, including:
Hard, Crunchy, and Sticky Foods
One of the most common reasons brackets fall off is from eating foods that put too much pressure on them. Foods to avoid include:
Nuts
Hard candy
Popcorn
Raw vegetables
Chewing gum
Caramel and other sweets
A Weak Bond
Occasionally, a bracket may not bond strongly to the tooth during placement, making it more likely to come loose.
Bad Habits
Chewing on fingernails, writing utensils like pens and pencils, or ice may weaken brackets and break them.
Injuries to the Mouth
Accidents or sports-related injuries can knock brackets loose. Wearing a mouth guard can prevent this from happening.
Bite Issues
As the upper teeth shift as the braces work, they may hit the brackets on the bottom teeth and pop them off. Your dentist can adjust your bite to prevent this from happening.
Aggressive Brushing and Flossing
Brushing or flossing too forcefully can place stress on the brackets and weaken the bond over time.
What To Do If a Bracket Falls Off
While a broken bracket is not an emergency, it should be fixed as soon as possible. Here is what to do if you notice a broken bracket:
Call your orthodontist. The first thing you should do is contact your orthodontist’s office. They will advise you on what to do and schedule an appointment to repair it.
Use orthodontic wax. If the broken bracket is sharp and uncomfortable, use wax to cover the edge. Orthodontic wax can also be used to hold the bracket in place temporarily.
Save the bracket. If the bracket comes completely off the tooth and wire, carefully remove and clean it, and keep it in a container where it will be safe.
Stick to soft foods. If you need to eat before the bracket is fixed, eat only soft food and avoid hard or sticky foods.
Schedule a Repair Appointment
Don’t delay getting a broken bracket fixed. Call our office today to schedule an appointment and get your braces back in working condition.