Damage
A small percentage of patients will experience some form of damage to their orthodontic appliances (braces) during the course of treatment. Damage does not happen easily if reasonable care is taken.
When damage occurs, treatment duration is usually increased. In other words, multiple offenders will lengthen the time that their braces must be worn.
In an effort to reduce damage to a minimum, the strongest available orthodontic glue is used to fix appliances to the teeth. However, it is also the patient’s responsibility to take adequate care to prevent damage. This means paying attention to how you bite together and what you are biting on.
Remember
- Braces do not just fall off - avoid hard, sticky and chewy food (minties, toffees, red skins etc.)
- Damage = braces on for longer
- Repeated damage = increased cost
Phone the office straight away if something breaks, even if you have an appointment in a few days. It is essential that you inform us of any damage as soon as possible so that we can either extend your appointment or reschedule one for you.
Damage can strike at any time if you are not being careful. There appears to be a higher incidence of breakages around Christmas, Easter and school holiday times. Please understand that these are the busiest times of the year for us and we apologise for any inconvenience in scheduling and appointment availability during this time.
