Braces are a common, highly effective method for straightening teeth and correcting bite issues. Modern orthodontics uses engineered materials designed to withstand the daily forces of chewing and speaking. Understanding the durability of the hardware and identifying the primary risks is the best way to ensure a smooth treatment process and handle unexpected breakages.
The Reality of Braces Durability
Modern orthodontic hardware is generally much stronger than many people assume, built to resist the routine pressures of the mouth. Brackets are typically constructed from high-grade stainless steel or titanium alloys, chosen for their strength, corrosion resistance, and biocompatibility. These components are designed to handle the continuous, gentle forces applied by the archwire necessary for tooth movement. Ceramic brackets are also engineered for durability, though they can be slightly more brittle than metal.
The archwire, which directs tooth movement, is made from resilient materials like nickel-titanium or stainless steel, allowing it to maintain its shape under tension. Breakage is rarely a result of material failure during normal function; instead, most issues stem from the adhesive bond or external, excessive force. The dental adhesive securing the bracket to the tooth surface is the most vulnerable point. It is engineered to be strong enough for treatment but weak enough for safe removal. When a bracket “breaks,” it is usually the bond that has failed, causing the bracket to detach from the enamel.
Common Triggers That Damage Brackets and Wires
The most frequent causes of damage involve actions that apply acute, excessive force beyond normal chewing stresses.
Dietary Risks
Dietary choices represent a major category of risk. Hard or crunchy foods can cause a sudden impact that shears the bracket from the tooth surface. Sticky or chewy foods, such as taffy, caramels, or gummy candies, can also cause damage by pulling the component loose during separation.
Habits and Trauma
Certain habits and accidental trauma are also contributors to appliance damage. Non-food chewing, such as biting on pen caps, pencils, or fingernails, introduces uneven pressure that can dislodge brackets or bend wires. Accidental facial trauma, particularly during sports, can easily break wires or cause multiple brackets to detach. Wearing a protective, custom-fitted mouthguard during any contact activity is a highly effective preventative measure.
Poor Oral Hygiene
Poor oral hygiene can indirectly weaken the attachment points. Plaque buildup around the bracket can lower the pH of the tooth surface, a process known as demineralization. This acidic environment compromises the integrity of the adhesive bond, increasing the risk of detachment even under normal chewing forces. Meticulous cleaning around all components is a preventative measure against bond failure.
Immediate Steps When Breakage Occurs
A broken bracket or protruding wire requires prompt attention, but it is rarely a medical emergency. The first step is to assess the situation and immediately call the orthodontic office to report the damage. Provide a clear description of the issue, such as whether a bracket is loose or a wire is poking, so the team can schedule the appropriate repair time.
Temporary relief measures can be taken at home to manage discomfort until the repair appointment. If a loose wire is poking the cheek or gum, a small piece of orthodontic wax can be rolled and pressed gently over the sharp end to create a smooth barrier. If a bracket has come loose but is still sliding on the wire, the wax can also be used to stabilize it and prevent irritation. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help with initial soreness, but patients should never attempt to cut a wire or remove a bracket themselves.