What if my retainer is lost or broken?

Braces can cause pressure, tenderness or rubbing after fitting and adjustments. This usually settles, but severe pain, swelling, trauma or a broken appliance should be checked. Soreness is usually strongest for the first three to five days after fitting and after a wire change, and over-the-counter pain relief and soft food help. Orthodontic wax over a bracket that rubs the cheek or lip can ease ulcers, and rinsing with warm salt water helps small sore spots to heal.

Treatment time depends on the starting position, bite, appliance type, biology and appointment attendance. Many cases take months to a few years, but only a clinician can estimate your case. Fixed braces for a moderate case commonly run 12 to 24 months, and complex bite corrections can take longer, followed by retainers worn afterwards. Missed or rescheduled appointments, broken brackets and, for aligners, trays not being worn as directed are the usual reasons a course runs longer than the original estimate.