You’re eating lunch or brushing your teeth when something with your braces feels off — suddenly, a bracket is loose or completely gone. This can be stressful, especially if you’re worried it will slow down your progress. The good news? A fallen bracket is a common orthodontic issue that’s usually manageable.
At Advanced Orthodontic Care in Denver, Dr. Robert Rudman and Dr. Jeff Birg have helped patients navigate these hiccups for decades while keeping their smile goals on track. This blog explains why brackets fall off, what to do when it happens, and how it may affect your treatment.
Why Do Brackets Fall Off?
Brackets are designed to stay firmly attached, but they’re not indestructible. Reasons they fall off include:
- Biting into hard or crunchy foods like ice, nuts, or popcorn
- Sticky foods such as caramel or gum
- Accidental trauma, like a sports impact
- Brushing too aggressively
- Normal wear during longer treatments
Even patients who follow instructions closely can experience a loose bracket at some point, so don’t beat yourself up if it happens to you.
What Should You Do Right Away?
If a bracket falls off, take these steps:
- Check the bracket: If it’s completely off, save it and bring it to your appointment.
- Leave it in place if possible: If it’s still attached to the wire, avoid twisting or pulling it.
- Use orthodontic wax: This can prevent irritation if the bracket is rubbing your cheek or lips.
- Call your orthodontist: Let them know what happened so they can guide the next steps.
Avoid trying to fix the bracket yourself, as this can damage the wire or surrounding brackets.
Will a Fallen Bracket Delay Treatment?
In many cases, a short delay won’t make a major difference — especially if it’s addressed quickly. However, brackets play a specific role in guiding tooth movement. Leaving one unattached for too long can affect how your teeth respond to the braces.
How to Prevent It from Happening Again
While accidents happen, you can lower the risk by:
- Following food guidelines closely
- Wearing a mouthguard during sports
- Brushing carefully around brackets
- Attending regular adjustment visits
Clear communication with your orthodontic team also helps catch small issues early.
Schedule a Braces Repair Visit Today
If a bracket has fallen off or simply doesn’t feel right, prompt treatment can keep things moving smoothly. Call Advanced Orthodontic Care in Denver at 303-331-0222 to schedule an appointment and receive trusted guidance from experienced orthodontists.