If your child needs braces, their oral hygiene maintenance and care routine will shift to properly account for this new addition. The end goal of this orthodontic practice is straight, aligned, beautiful teeth, and broken braces can hinder that process, so it's best to do everything in your power to avoid that happening. To help maintain safe and intact brackets, here's some useful information.

A Guide to Avoiding Broken Braces

Causes of Broken Braces

While brackets are often sturdy and secure, there are certain actions and behaviors that put them at risk of breaking. Consuming hard or chewy foods, such as candy, gummy snacks, chips, or nuts can cause damage, so it's best to limit your intake of these kinds of treats while wearing braces. Additionally, impact sports can be high-risk activities for those who have braces, so engaging in less-intense or solo exercise can be helpful. 

What to Do if They Break

It's simply hard to avoid all of the possible risks to your braces, so in the event that they do break, don't panic. Make an appointment with the orthodontist, ensuring that you specify the nature of the situation, so that they are able to see if scheduling accommodations are possible. If the broken bracket punctures the gums or skin of your cheeks, rinse with salt water or another nontoxic cleansing solution to avoid infection. Until you're able to be seen by a professional, eat soft foods. 

What the Orthodontist Will Do

Broken braces are relatively common, so the orthodontist will be able to easily make the necessary repairs. Depending on the severity of the break, an entire bracket might need to be replaced, or else a small adjustment might be all that's required. Either way, an orthodontist will be able to appropriately assess and address your oral health needs. 

For several years, Carolyn B. Crowell, DMD, & Associates has been providing quality dental and orthodontic care to residents throughout Avon, OH, and the surrounding region. These dentists commit to upholding the guidelines of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and use kid-friendly language to maintain a welcoming environment. They offer everything from routine checkups to in-depth orthodontics, so call (440) 934-0149 to schedule your next appointment. Visit their website for additional information on their services.