When using orthodontic appliances, issues with attachment may occur. This is usually accompanied by constant discomfort and pain. Sometimes a situation arises where a bracket comes off in conditions where professional help is unavailable.
Causes of the problem
Various factors can affect the attachment. All of them can lead to detachment. These include:
- heavy chewing load;
- mechanical impact on the appliance;
- small oral cavity space and tight placement of brackets;
- use of poor-quality adhesive or frequent re-bonding;
- improper cleaning of the appliance;
- disregard of the orthodontist’s recommendations.
Sometimes patients cannot avoid hard foods. Eating nuts or apples increases pressure on the jaw and appliance. Specialists usually warn about this in advance.
With proper installation by a professional in a clinic, accidental detachment of brackets is almost completely prevented. Patients regularly visit their orthodontist, who checks all the locks.
What to do if you cannot see a doctor when a bracket comes off
What should you do if a bracket comes off? First of all, do not panic. Whether professional help is nearby or not, follow the correct steps to avoid further complications:
- Locate the fallen bracket. This is necessary to ensure it is not swallowed with food.
- Contact your doctor for advice and to schedule an appointment.
- If it happens at night or while traveling, use tweezers to detach the ligature or open the lock. Then remove and save the bracket.
- During the next visit to the dental clinic, the dentist will place the new element and check the attachment of all other components.
It is strictly forbidden to try to pull off the bracket from the tooth yourself. This may cause serious damage and pain. Also, it is strictly prohibited to attempt to reattach it on your own due to lack of experience, knowledge, and proper tools. If a bracket comes off a front tooth, make an appointment with your orthodontist. Inform your doctor about the situation to ensure the appliance is properly restored.
