Protect Your Teen’s Braces: 5 Essential Tips to Prevent Broken Brackets (Parent’s Guide 2024)

If your teen just got braces, you’re probably wondering how to prevent those dreaded emergency orthodontist visits for broken brackets. Helping your teen navigate their orthodontic journey can feel overwhelming as a parent, but don’t worry – we’ve got your back at KidSmiles with these practical tips to protect your investment and their future smile. 

1. Smart Snacking for Braces Success

One of the most common causes of broken brackets is eating the wrong foods. Help your teen avoid orthodontic emergencies by keeping these items out of your pantry:

• Hard foods: Nuts, hard candies, and ice (yes, some teens love to crunch ice!)
• Sticky treats: Caramel, taffy, and gummy bears can pull brackets right off
• Chewy foods: Those morning bagels and tough pizza crusts need to be cut into smaller pieces

Pro Parent Tip: Stock your kitchen with braces-friendly alternatives like yogurt, smoothies, pasta, and soft fruits. Consider prepping softer meals on adjustment days when their teeth might be sensitive.

2. Make Oral Hygiene a Priority

We know getting teens to brush regularly can be challenging, but with braces, it’s non-negotiable. A solid cleaning routine includes:

• Brushing after every meal (pack a travel toothbrush for school)
• Using fluoride toothpaste for stronger enamel
• Daily flossing with orthodontic floss or floss threaders
• Water flossers can be a game-changer for teens who hate traditional flossing

3. Break Those Bad Habits

Teens often unconsciously use their teeth as tools, so watch out for these bracket-breaking habits. We know teens think their parents don’t know anything … so we’ll partner with you (Dr. White has your back!) to explain the whys behind not using their teeth as tools. 

• Opening packages or bottles with teeth
• Biting nails when stressed (especially during exam season)
• Chewing on pencils or pen caps during class
• Playing with the wires or brackets when bored

4. Protection During Activities

If your teen is involved in sports or other physical activities:

• Invest in a quality orthodontic mouthguard
• Keep it clean and easily accessible in their sports bag
• Encourage gentle brushing techniques, especially after workouts
• Check for loose brackets regularly, particularly after physical activities

5. Maintain Regular Communication

Stay connected with both your teen and their orthodontist:

• Don’t ignore complaints about discomfort or loose brackets
• Schedule regular check-ups and keep those appointments
• Ask about wax and emergency supplies to keep at home
• Save your orthodontist’s emergency contact in your phone

Remember: The journey to a perfect smile is a team effort. While the initial cost of braces is significant, preventing bracket damage will save you money and your teen time in braces. By following these guidelines, you’ll help ensure their treatment stays on track for that confident, beautiful smile they’re working toward.

We have two locations where Dr. White is our resident Orthodontist: KidSmiles of Lake Conroe and Huntsville. Our sister location in Spring, PDS Smiles, can also serve your teen’s orthodontic needs.