Problems With Braces
In this section you can find advice for dealing with common problems. Please check in the relevant section for the type of brace you have:
Removable Brace Problems
Fixed Brace Problems
Retainer Problems
If you had a brace fitted or adjusted at your last appointment, please check the relevant section above to see if there is an immediate solution. It is normal to experience some mild discomfort during the first 3-5 days after having your brace fitted or adjusted. If you have a removable brace or retainer, you may also find speech more difficult and find yourself swallowing more. These problems are normal and will usually settle after a few days.
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.
If your brace or retainer gets damaged or broken, please check the relevant section above to see what to do and phone the clinic immediately so that we can provide additional advice and, if necessary, arrange an appointment. Brace damage may not always seem an emergency but you should inform us straight away to avoid increasing the length of your treatment.
If you have swallowed a separator or a part of your brace, such as a bracket or metal ring, and you are experiencing difficulty breathing or abdominal pain you should seek immediate medical attention. Otherwise, the swallowed piece will usually pass out of the body in a bowel movement.
If you have a problem that is not dealt with here or in the relevant advice section for your brace, please do not hesitate to contact us.