What to do if Your Braces Are Bent or Damaged

While braces are made from durable metal brackets and wires, it is still possible for certain foods and activities to bend or damage key pieces of hardware. This is even more likely if you chew and gum or indulge in sticky or hard foods. This can bend wires, detach brackets and bands or even pull a spacer out of place.

If something does happen, it will need to be repaired immediately at Dr. Scott Ervin’s office in Terrell, Texas. Even if the problem is addressed in short order, the change in tension is causes, will likely increase the number of adjustment sessions and duration of time you need to wear braces.

That being said, there are a few things you can do to help manage a problem, when it first occurs.

When Dr. Scott Ervin first installed your braces you were given a piece of special orthodontic wax. You can try to secure any sharp points inside the orthodontic wax to protect your mouth. If you don’t have the wax handy, you can make do in a pinch with a pencil eraser.

You should never try to manipulate a bent wire, or re-attach a damaged band or spacer.

In fact, it’s not uncommon for a spacer to come loose or even fall out shortly before your next adjustment session. Dr. Scott Ervin will most likely schedule an earlier adjustment session.

If any part of your braces is damaged or suffering from wear and tear, you should call Dr. Scott Ervin’s office in Terrell, Texas at 972-563-1670 to schedule an appointment.