Problem with usb hub port

i cant plug my webcam in the usb port anymore, its actually been years, but i've just learned to live with out it, but its sad because i cant see my family in new mexico.. in the usb port or hole, there are 4 metal looking prongs and the two are bent down. im assuming this is the problem. i think one of my nephews tried jamming his ipod in there, thats all i could think of? ive gotten desperate to where i put a fork or knive in there to try to straighten them out and just shorted out the pc. and when i try to plug it in anyway, the little warning pops up and say that the device has exceeded its hub port etc.. so if anyone can help, id really appreciate it
Joe