FAQ and SOS

As plaque builds up on the brace during the course of the day – as it does on the teeth – and thus forms a breeding ground for harmful bacteria, cleaning the brace every day is very important. Simply rinse the brace in lukewarm water and make sure to touch it only on the plastic part and not on the wires as these could bend. Then clean the brace with a toothbrush and toothpaste. This is best done twice a day.

Yes, this is recommended. Because the time of the active orthodontic treatment – in particular with a fixed dental brace – requires a high level of discipline in oral and dental hygiene. In order to identify possible caries risks early on and to prevent them, you should have regular check-ups with your family dentist and have your teeth cleaned professionally.

It is best to attend the practice as soon as possible. Because this kind of pinching may have different causes. For example, a tooth coming through may cause pressure points or a wire element may pierce the gum. It is important not to delay too much, as if you wait too long, it is possible that the dental brace will no longer fit.

Unfortunately, this happens fairly often, especially with loose braces that children like to carry around. In the event of loss, it depends on your insurance and your contractual conditions whether you will have to bear the costs of a replacement brace yourself. If you lose it the first time, the health insurance fund usually takes responsibility for this additional cost.

No, successful orthodontic treatment does not depend on your age – as long as your own teeth and the periodontal support are in a healthy state appropriate for your age. Orthodontic pretreatment can be particularly useful when restoring bridges, crowns or implants.

If the bracket is attached to the wire with a rubber ring, you can carefully loosen it and remove the bracket. You should bring the bracket with you to your next appointment. If you are unable to remove it, stabilise the bracket with protective wax and make an appointment to see us as soon as possible. This way you can avoid undesirable tooth movements.

If a band is loose, you should remove it from the tooth if possible. Please arrange an appointment at our practice so we can fit the band again.

Try to guide the arch back into the bracket/band with your fingers or with the aid of tweezers. If this does not work, please simply shorten the arch at the point where it irritates you. Alternatively, you can also press some protective wax onto the end of the wire. Please arrange an appointment for repair as soon as possible.

If the fixed bracket was inserted or an arch changed at the last appointment, your teeth may react sensitively to pain. Take an analgesic tablet or syrup if necessary. If there is no improvement, please arrange an SOS appointment at the practice.

Please arrange an appointment at the practice immediately and do not remove the wire yourself. The loosened parts can be simply reattached using plastic if necessary.