Fixed Brace Problems
During the first 3-5 days after having the brace fitted or adjusted, it is common to experience one or more of the following:
- Slight discomfort in the teeth and gums. If necessary, painkillers, like those you normally take for a headache, may help (be sure to follow the instructions). If a particular area becomes sore, phone us as soon as possible for an appointment.
- One or more brackets rubbing on cheeks or lips. This should settle within a few days as your mouth becomes used to the brace. In the meantime, you can cover the bracket with brace wax. Take a small piece of wax from the box and roll it into a ball, warming it with your fingers at the same time. Gently press the ball onto and around the bracket that is causing the discomfort.
In case of severe or persistent problems with braces, please phone the clinic immediately so that we can provide advice and, if necessary, arrange an emergency appointment. Outside surgery hours, please listen to the recorded message and follow the instructions.
You will find advice for some common problems here. If you have a problem that is not dealt with below please do not hesitate to contact us.
A wire is digging into my cheek, gums or lips
My brace has broken
A wire is digging into my cheek, gums or lips
Please contact us immediately for an emergency appointment. In the meantime, cover the protruding wire with brace wax using the method above.
Please contact us immediately to inform us of the breakage and we will arrange an appropriate appointment. Do not wait until your next appointment as breakages may delay your treatment and may result in damage to your teeth. If you repeatedly break your brace, your treatment may be stopped. Please continue reading for specific advice about each part of the brace.
A bracket has come loose
If you are not in pain, a loose bracket is not usually an emergency but you should contact us immediately to inform us. If the bracket has not already come off the wire, you can remove it by using tweezers to take off the elastic band that attaches the bracket to the wire.
A ring has come loose
Please contact us immediately for an appointment, particularly if the wire has come out of the ring and is causing pain.
A wire has come loose
If the wire has come out completely you do not have to worry but please contact us immediately for an appointment. If the wire is digging into your mouth and causing pain, we will arrange an emergency appointment. In the meantime, cover the protruding wire with brace wax using the method above.