Orthodontic treatment in kids is known as interceptive orthodontics, and it can begin as early as age 6 or 7. Some of the treatments include braces (wired or without wire). But sometimes the braces or wires can be broken.
It is necessary to note that early treatment does not apply to all orthodontic issues; however, it may assist in specific cases.
Why Are Dental Braces Needed?
Early intervention takes advantage of that a child’s jaw is still growing. Early treatment is useful when the dental arches and jaws are not in the proper position. Functional home appliances can repair or improve these problems. More treatment normally is required later, but it may be much shorter and less included.
Kids braces have improved a lot in the past couple of decades. Technology has made them more comfortable and more attractive than the braces most parents remember using.
What to Do with Broken Dental Braces or Wires
Problems with braces can consist of:
- Broken braces (brackets).
- Broken wires.
- Loose bands.
- Loose braces.
- Wires sticking out.
Call and go over the issue with your orthodontist or office personnel. You might have to visit immediately, or you may have the ability to fix the issue yourself until your next visit to the workplace. If an injury (such as a blow to the mouth) caused the problem, seek help immediately. Your orthodontist will let you know if you need instant attention or if the problem can wait up until your next visit.
What You Can Do
Braces, bands or wires in some cases break or fall off. Typically this is triggered by chewing tough or sticky foods. Regularly, one of the parts will come loose. This can cause some discomfort. Here are a couple of possible problems:
- Loose bracket. Brackets are the metal or ceramic pieces that are attached to each tooth. They’re normally attached utilizing a product called composite resin. It is similar to the tooth-colored product used for some fillings. If you chew something difficult or sticky, the resin can weaken or break. When that happens, a bracket can come loose. It may poke into your gums, tongue or cheek. When you first get your braces, your orthodontist will give you a special wax. You can put the wax over the bracket to keep it from poking you. This ought to supply some comfort up until you can see your orthodontist.
- Loose band. Bands are the metal rings that are cemented around back teeth (and often around front teeth). If a band ends up being loose, require a visit to have it re-cemented or replaced. If the band comes off completely, do not try to put it back on. Wait and bring it to your consultation.
- Protruding or broken wire. This is a common issue. If a wire breaks or stands out, it can injure your cheek, tongue or gum. You may have the ability to use the eraser end of a pencil to press the wire into a better position. If that does not work, put a little piece of orthodontic wax over completion of the wire. Do not cut the wire. A cut wire can be accidentally swallowed or breathed in. If the wire has triggered a sore, rinse your mouth with warm salt water or an antiseptic rinse. For salt water, use half teaspoon of salt in 8 ounces of water. Rinsing will keep the area clean and decrease discomfort. You can also use an over the counter pain reliever (such as Anbesol). This will briefly numb the area. If the pain doesn’t get better or the sore appears to be worsening, call your orthodontist for a consultation. When the wire is broken, it can’t assist move your teeth.
- Loose spacer. Spacers or separators are rubber rings that are put between your teeth. They are left in place typically for a few days. They open a small space between your teeth so that orthodontic bands will slip onto your teeth easily. Springs or brass wire might be used for this function. Often spacers can slip out of position or fall out. If this takes place, make a consultation with your orthodontist. You are probably ready to have actually the band put.
What Your Orthodontist Will Do
Broken brackets, loose bands or wires take time to fix. In some cases your orthodontist will change, rearrange or reattach the existing wires or brackets. Often your orthodontist will replace brackets or wires.
If you do not have any pain and the issue will not interfere with treatment, the orthodontist might delay repairs till your next routine appointment. In any case, call the office prior to that routine visit. Make sure enough time is scheduled to finish the repairs.
