Problems with your fixed brace

A sharp piece of wire is digging into my cheek or lips
A piece of my brace has broken off and I think I might have swallowed it
A bracket has come off a tooth
The archwire has come out of a metal tube or bracket

A sharp piece of wire is digging into my cheek or lips
As a temporary measure, cover the end of the wire with a small ball or strip of relief wax (which is included in your fixed appliance care kit). The wax is easier to apply if it is first softened by pressing it between your fingers. Sugar free chewing gum can be used if you do not have any wax! Ring our emergency number if the wax or chewing gum doesn’t help.
top of page ^

A piece of my brace has broken off and I think I might have swallowed it
If you have any difficulty with breathing, seek immediate medical attention. Chest x-rays may be required to determine the position of the broken piece. Usually, the broken piece will pass into the stomach and will subsequently pass out of the body in a bowl movement. You should seek medical attention if you develop any stomach or abdominal pains soon after swallowing a broken piece of your brace.
top of page ^

A bracket has come off a tooth
(and is either still attached to the wire or has come off altogether)
Urgent attention is not required if you are not in any pain. Your orthodontist will assess the need for repair at your next appointment
top of page ^

The archwire has come out of a metal tube or bracket
Again, urgent attention is not required if the wire is not causing you any discomfort. It the wire has partly come out of the molar tube it may be possible to push it back in with your finger or using tweezers.
top of page ^

If any part of your brace is broken, please don’t wait for your next appointment – get in touch with us on 01509 261 006 or call in and we’ll see you as soon as we can.

top of page