Broken Braces? Take a Deep Breath First.

It always seems to happen at the worst possible moment: your child walks in, looking panicked, and says, “Something’s wrong with my braces.”

Whether it's a poking wire, a loose bracket, or something just doesn’t look right, it's completely normal to feel a jolt of worry especially if this is your first time navigating orthodontic care. The good news? Most broken braces aren’t true emergencies, and you’ve got more control than you think.

At Hurst Pediatric Dentistry, we’ve guided hundreds of families through unexpected orthodontic hiccups. That’s why we created this step-by-step guide to give you immediate clarity, reassurance, and practical tools to manage the situation calmly and confidently.

In this guide, you’ll learn:

• How to quickly assess the problem and keep your child comfortable

• What signs require urgent dental attention (and what can wait a day or two)

• Simple, safe ways to protect your child’s mouth at home

• How we support kids with dental anxiety, sensory needs, or special healthcare challenges

• How to prevent broken braces in the future

So let’s walk through this together calmly, clearly, and parent to parent.
You’ve got this.

Quick Checklist What to Do in the First 5 Minutes

When your child tells you their braces are broken, it’s easy to imagine the worst but not every break is an emergency. Use this simple checklist to calmly assess the situation before taking action.

1. Is Your Child in Pain?

Gently ask your child if anything hurts especially in their mouth, cheeks, gums, or tongue. A poking wire or sharp bracket might cause soreness or irritation. If they say “yes,” we’ll walk through how to reduce discomfort at home in the next sections.

Mild soreness or rubbing can often be soothed with orthodontic wax or a warm saltwater rinse (more on that below).

Sharp pain or bleeding may be a sign of a more serious issue and you should call your pediatric dentist or orthodontist promptly.

2. Can You See What’s Broken?

Look carefully (using a flashlight if needed). Here’s what to check:

• Bracket – Is it completely off the tooth or just loose and spinning on the wire?

• Wire – Is it bent, broken, or poking into your child’s cheek?

• Elastic ligatures (tiny rubber bands) – Have any popped off?

• Appliance – Is a space maintainer, spring, or other device visibly damaged?

Take note of anything that looks unusual even if your child says it doesn’t hurt. If possible, take a clear photo in case you need to send it to your dentist.

3. Is the Wire Poking Into Soft Tissue?

This is one of the most common complaints with broken braces — especially if the wire has shifted or snapped.

A poking wire can:

• Irritate the cheek or gums

• Cause sores or small cuts if left untreated

• Lead to infection risk if the soft tissue breaks open

Do not try to yank the wire out this can worsen the issue. Instead, move to the comfort tips in the rest of the article down there, where we’ll show you how to gently cover it with wax or reposition it.

4. Can They Eat Safely Right Now?

If the break happened mid-meal (or just before dinner), don’t rush back to normal eating.

Avoid:

• Crunchy or sticky foods (chips, granola, gum, candy)

• Foods that require a lot of chewing (steak, apples, crusty bread)

Stick to:

• Smooth textures like mashed potatoes, applesauce, yogurt, and pasta

• Cool drinks and soft snacks until the damage is addressed

These food choices reduce the risk of further damage and help keep the area comfortable.

5. What NOT to Do Right Away

Let’s pause and highlight a few things not to do even with the best intentions:

• Don’t pull off a bracket or wire unless instructed by a dentist

• Don’t cut any wires (yet) unless they’re causing immediate injury and you know how to do it safely

• Don’t assume it’s urgent you might be able to wait for a regular appointment

This checklist gives you a solid foundation to figure out what’s going on and what’s safe to do next.

Spot the Problem Types of Braces Damage & What They Mean

Not all brace breaks are created equal. Some issues are cosmetic and can wait for a scheduled appointment, while others may require quicker intervention. This section helps you identify the most common types of braces damage and what they actually mean for your child.

1. Loose Bracket

A bracket is the small square piece bonded to your child’s tooth. If it's become unglued but is still attached to the wire, it may wiggle or spin.

Why it happens:
Chewing on hard foods (like popcorn kernels or nuts), accidental bumps to the mouth, or sticky snacks can break the bond between the tooth and bracket.

Is it an emergency?
Usually not. But if it’s causing discomfort or at risk of falling off completely, call your dentist. Until then, use orthodontic wax to prevent rubbing against cheeks or gums.

Educational Tip: Brackets are typically bonded using dental adhesives like glass ionomer cement or composite resin designed to be strong but removable without damaging the enamel.

2. Broken or Poking Wire

This is one of the most common and uncomfortable issues. A wire may:

• Slip out of place

• Bend or snap

• Poke the cheek, lip, or gums

Why it happens:
It often occurs in the early stages of treatment when thinner wires are used. These wires are more flexible and can move if dislodged by eating or brushing.

Is it an emergency?

• If there’s no bleeding or pain, not urgent.

• If the wire is embedded in soft tissue or causing constant irritation, call us or your orthodontist immediately.

You can use clean tweezers to try repositioning the wire. Orthodontic wax is a great short-term solution.

3. Ligature Popped Off (The Tiny Rubber Bands)

Ligatures hold the archwire onto the brackets. If one comes off, your child might not even notice but it’s worth checking.

Why it happens:
These tiny elastics can stretch or snap with chewing or while brushing.

Is it an emergency?
No. Just avoid further loosening, and mention it at the next orthodontic visit. If multiple ligatures pop off or a wire is loose as a result, it may require a quick fix.

Did You Know? Some braces use metal “tie wires” instead of elastics, which are more durable but require more precision to adjust.

4. Bent or Misaligned Braces

Sometimes a whole section of the wire appears out of place like it’s not following the usual arc.

Why it happens:
Often the result of trauma (falling, getting hit in the mouth) or chewing something too tough.

Is it an emergency?
Possibly. This can interfere with your child’s tooth movement and delay progress. It’s best to call your provider to evaluate whether immediate adjustment is needed.

5. Injury to the Mouth or Face

If braces are damaged due to a blow to the face (sports injury, fall, etc.), check for:

• Cuts or bleeding inside the mouth

• Loose teeth

• Broken lips or swollen cheeks

• Wire embedded in gum tissue

Is it an emergency?
Yes. This is a dental emergency. Contact your pediatric dentist or orthodontist immediately. You can also rinse gently with warm saltwater to clean the area until help is available.

Saltwater rinse instructions: Mix ½ teaspoon of salt into 8 oz of warm water. Have your child swish gently and spit. This helps reduce bacteria and soothe inflammation.

Emergency or Not?

When to Call Right Away vs. When You Can Monitor at Home

One of the first questions that crosses a parent’s mind when something breaks:
“Do I need to call the dentist now… or can this wait?”

The good news is, most broken-brace situations are not emergencies. However, there are some red flags that require quicker attention.

Call Your Dentist or Orthodontist Immediately If…

These are situations that may lead to injury, infection, or delay in orthodontic progress if left unaddressed:

1. A Wire Is Embedded in Soft Tissue

If a wire is stuck in your child’s gums, cheek, or tongue and can’t be moved, it must be handled by a professional.

Embedded wires can cause soft tissue damage and increase the risk of infection if not removed properly.

2. There’s Active Bleeding or Swelling

Bleeding from the gums or lips that doesn’t stop with gentle pressure after 10–15 minutes, or visible swelling around a bracket or tooth, requires urgent care.

3. Your Child Was Injured in the Mouth

A fall, sports accident, or any blow to the face while wearing braces can cause hidden damage — including root injury or fractured teeth.

Even if everything looks fine, it’s worth checking with your dentist to rule out trauma.

4. A Bracket or Wire Is Causing Severe Pain

If your child is constantly touching their cheek or complaining of stabbing pain — even with wax — it’s time to come in.

Pain that interferes with sleep, eating, or speaking is considered a functional issue and warrants attention.

5. The Braces Are Bent or Pulled Out of Shape

This can stop or reverse the movement of teeth, delaying treatment and may worsen alignment. Don’t wait on this one.

Monitor at Home & Call During Office Hours If…

These are minor issues that usually don’t require emergency care but should be corrected soon:

1. A Bracket Is Loose but Still Attached

As long as it’s not causing pain or falling off completely, use orthodontic wax and call to schedule a repair.

2. The Wire Is Poking But Not Embedded

If the wire is irritating but hasn’t pierced soft tissue, cover it with wax (see Section 5). If that brings relief, you can wait a day or two.

3. A Ligature (Elastic Band) Came Off

Not urgent unless it causes the wire to shift or more than one comes off.

4. Your Child Is Nervous but Not in Pain

It’s common for kids to get anxious even if the issue is minor. Offer comfort and a soft food option, then call us during business hours for guidance.

Sensory Considerations for Special Needs Children

If your child is nonverbal, has autism, or sensory processing challenges, even a minor issue may feel like an emergency to them and that’s valid.

• Trust your instincts. If your child is clearly in distress or unable to tolerate the sensation, reach out.

• We offer flexible appointment slots and sedation options tailored for children with special healthcare needs. Learn about our special needs dentistry approach.

1. Use Orthodontic Wax for Soothing Protection

Orthodontic wax is a soft, moldable substance designed to cover sharp or protruding parts of braces. It creates a smooth barrier between the braces and the soft tissues of the mouth.

How to apply it:

1. Wash your hands thoroughly.

2. Dry the bracket or wire area with a cotton swab or tissue.

3. Pinch off a small piece of wax (about the size of a pea).

4. Roll it into a ball and press it firmly over the sharp edge.

5. Have your child avoid chewing on that side until you’re seen.

Don’t have wax? Use sugar-free chewing gum as a short-term substitute (but only if your child won’t swallow it).

2. Trim a Sharp Wire (If Truly Necessary)

This is a last resort — and only if the wire is visibly poking and painful, and you can’t reach your dentist in time.

You’ll need:

• Clean hands

• A pair of sterilized nail clippers or small wire cutters

• Rubbing alcohol or hot water to disinfect the tool

• A flashlight and steady hand

Steps:

1. Sterilize the tool.

2. Have your child sit still with their mouth open.

3. Gently trim the excess wire — ideally just enough to prevent injury.

4. Apply wax afterward.

Important: Do not attempt this if the wire is close to the gums or embedded. In that case, cover with wax and seek professional help. 

3. Soothe With a Warm Saltwater Rinse

A saltwater rinse helps reduce irritation and prevent infection — especially useful if the wire has caused a small cut.

How to make it:

• Mix ½ teaspoon of salt into 1 cup of warm water

• Have your child gently swish for 30 seconds

• Spit out (do not swallow)

• Repeat up to 3 times daily

4. Offer Soft, Easy-to-Chew Foods

Your child might be sore or hesitant to eat after a break — and that’s OK. Stick to gentle textures that won’t put stress on their braces.

Good options:

• Applesauce

• Yogurt

• Mashed potatoes

• Smoothies

• Macaroni and cheese

• Soft pancakes or scrambled eggs

Avoid:

• Crunchy snacks (chips, popcorn, carrots)

• Sticky candies or gum

• Hard bread crusts or bagels

Pro Tip: Use a cold smoothie or chilled yogurt for added soothing effect.

5. Comfort Your Child Emotionally

For many kids, the feeling of something being “off” with their braces is more distressing than the physical issue itself.

• Use calm, reassuring language: “We’re going to fix this together.”

• Distract with a show, coloring book, or cuddles.

• Involve them in the process: let them hand you the wax or mirror.

What to Do If Your Child Has Special Needs or Dental Anxiety

For many children especially those with autism, ADHD, sensory processing differences, or prior traumatic dental experiences even a small issue like a poking wire can feel overwhelming. As a parent, you’re not just dealing with a broken bracket… you’re managing fear, meltdowns, or communication barriers.

At Hurst Pediatric Dentistry, we’ve helped hundreds of families navigate these moments with care, patience, and respect. Here’s how to support your child and yourself if they have special healthcare needs or dental anxiety.

1. Use Clear, Predictable Language

Children with anxiety or neurodivergent traits often respond better to simple, direct phrases they can predict and process.

Try saying:

• “We’re going to fix your braces. First, I’ll look. Then I’ll help.”

• “This wax will make the poking stop. It’s soft and safe.”

• “We’ll call Dr. Hurst’s office, and they will know exactly what to do.”

Avoid:

• Vague or emotionally charged language like “Oh no, this looks really bad!”

• Fast-paced instructions or multiple steps at once

2. Reduce Sensory Input During Assessment

If your child is sensory-sensitive, even the process of looking in their mouth may trigger a shutdown or meltdown.

Try:

• Using a flashlight in a dim room rather than bright overhead lighting

• Sitting on the floor beside your child instead of standing over them

• Letting them hold a favorite fidget toy or comfort item

Tip: Letting your child hold the mirror while you talk them through what you’re doing gives them back a sense of control.

3. Avoid Brushing or Flossing the Affected Area

Unless the area is visibly dirty, don’t force oral hygiene around a broken bracket or poking wire especially if your child is highly reactive.

Focus on comfort first. You can clean the rest of the mouth and revisit the problem spot once they’re calm or after professional care.

4. Offer Safe Sensory Soothing Options

If your child is in distress or showing signs of meltdown, physical comfort strategies can help ground them:

• Cold: Ice water or a popsicle can numb the area and distract from pain.

• Weighted comfort: Let them lie under a weighted blanket or wrap in a favorite hoodie.

• Auditory relief: Soft music or noise-canceling headphones may reduce stimulation.

Research shows that sensory-based calming routines especially involving cold or deep pressure can help reduce emotional overwhelm in children with ASD and sensory processing disorder.

5. Let Us Know We’ll Prepare Accordingly

At Hurst Pediatric Dentistry, we encourage parents to call us even if you’re unsure whether a visit is necessary.

We can:

• Pre-plan extra time so you’re not rushed

• Use a quiet, sensory-friendly room

• Offer sedation options or gentle desensitization for highly anxious children

• Avoid overwhelming them with too many steps in one visit

We’ve worked with many children like yours and we’ll work with you to make this feel manageable.

How Hurst Pediatric Dentistry Helps (Without the Sales Pitch)

When something goes wrong with your child’s braces, you need more than just technical help you need calm guidance, empathy, and the confidence that your provider understands both the clinical issue and your child’s emotional needs.

At Hurst Pediatric Dentistry, we approach every dental emergency big or small with the same level of patience, flexibility, and care. Here’s what you can expect from our team if your child’s braces break.

1. We’re Ready for Pediatric Emergencies

Whether your child is experiencing pain, trauma from a fall, or simply has a loose bracket that’s worrying them, we’re equipped to help.

We can:

• Assess and treat minor orthodontic issues in-house

• Refer to or collaborate with your child’s orthodontist when needed

• Prioritize comfort and safety in every interaction

Emergency slots are built into our schedule each week to allow same-day or next-day visits when something unexpected comes up.

2. We Know How to Work With Worried Kids (and Parents)

Children who are nervous, scared, or on the autism spectrum may react strongly to even small disruptions in their braces — and we’re prepared for that.

We use:

• Gentle, child-friendly explanations

• A step-by-step “show and tell” approach before touching anything

• Time for breaks, questions, and calming techniques during treatment

“We take the time to make each visit gentle, fun, and stress-free.”

3. We Offer Sensory-Friendly and Sedation Options

If your child becomes distressed or physically uncomfortable during dental care, we can offer solutions like:

• Laughing gas (nitrous oxide): a safe, mild sedative that helps reduce anxiety
  Learn about nitrous oxide safety here.

• IV sedation (for complex or highly anxious cases): administered in-office by trained professionals
  AAPD Guidelines on Sedation Dentistry

• Longer, quieter appointments in a sensory-aware setting

4. We Always Keep You in the Loop

Broken braces often lead to more questions than answers. That’s why we offer:

• Clear explanations of what’s happening and why

• Photos or diagrams if needed to help you understand treatment options

• Transparent conversations about costs, insurance, and next steps — no surprises

5. We Partner With Orthodontists and Pediatricians

If your child already sees an orthodontist, we’ll communicate with them directly when needed. We also maintain strong referral ties with pediatricians, occupational therapists, and special needs coordinators throughout the Hurst–Fort Worth–Arlington area.

Prevention 101 — How to Help Braces Stay Intact

The best way to avoid the stress of broken braces is to prevent them in the first place. While not every mishap can be avoided (kids will be kids!), these simple strategies can significantly reduce the risk of broken brackets, loose wires, and emergency visits.

1. Stick to Braces-Safe Foods

The number one cause of broken brackets? Eating the wrong things — especially sticky, crunchy, or hard foods.

Avoid:

• Sticky candies (caramels, taffy, gum)

• Crunchy snacks (popcorn, chips, ice)

• Hard fruits and veggies as-is (like whole apples or raw carrots)

• Tough meats or chewy bread (jerky, crusty baguettes)

Eat this instead:

• Soft fruits (bananas, berries, cooked apples)

• Steamed or mashed vegetables

• Pasta, rice, soft tortillas

• Yogurt, eggs, smoothies

Tip: If your child is craving crunchy veggies, try steaming them until soft or cutting into thin slices.

2. Teach Gentle Brushing Techniques

Brushing too aggressively can loosen brackets and damage wires — especially for younger children still learning hand control.

Guide your child to:

• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush

• Angle the brush toward the gumline

• Gently brush above, below, and around each bracket

• Spend 2 minutes brushing (use a timer or favorite song)

Brushing with braces should feel like a “massage,” not a scrub.
Learn more: ADA’s Brushing with Braces Tips

3. Use a Mouthguard for Sports and Active Play

If your child plays any contact sport — from football to gymnastics — a mouthguard can help protect their braces and prevent mouth injuries.

• Custom mouthguards (from your dentist or orthodontist) provide the best protection and comfort

• Boil-and-bite guards are a more affordable at-home option

A direct hit to the face without a mouthguard can bend wires, pop off brackets, or cause soft tissue injuries.

4. Break the Bad Habits

Some everyday habits — especially when done unconsciously — can increase the chances of damaging braces.

Watch out for:

• Biting fingernails or pencils

• Chewing on ice

• Using teeth to open packaging

• Fidgeting with brackets or wires

Gentle reminders and alternatives (like stress balls or chew-safe jewelry for sensory kids) can help.

5. Keep Up with Regular Checkups

Routine visits allow your pediatric dentist to:

• Check for minor damage before it becomes a big issue

• Reinforce cleaning and care habits

• Coordinate with your child’s orthodontist as needed

We also use these visits to teach brushing techniques, reinforce food rules, and support anxious children — all of which lead to fewer emergencies down the road.

Final Reassurance & What To Do Next

You made it — and more importantly, you now know what to do when your child’s braces break.

Whether it’s a popped wire, a loose bracket, or a situation that feels bigger than it is, remember: you are not alone. Braces break sometimes — and that doesn’t make you a bad parent or mean something is wrong with your child. It just means it’s time to take a breath, take stock, and take the next right step.

If You’re Still Unsure What to Do…

That’s OK.

We encourage you to call us, even if you’re just looking for advice. Whether it’s a photo of a poking wire, a question about sedation, or a child who can’t explain what’s wrong — we’re here to help.

You don’t need to know all the answers.
You just need a team that knows how to guide you through them.

When In Doubt, Reach Out

Call our office at (insert number) we’ll walk you through what’s happening and help you decide if you need to come in.
Already a patient? You can also message us through your patient portal or visit our contact page.

Even if your child sees an orthodontist, we’re here to support you as your dental home. And if you’re not yet a patient, we’re happy to answer questions and point you in the right direction.

Finally:

Broken braces may be frustrating, but they’re also fixable — and you don’t have to panic.
With the right knowledge, the right tools, and the right team behind you, you’ve got everything you need to handle it with confidence.

And if you need us?
We’re just a phone call (or smile) away. 💙