Emergency signs: Swelling that spreads across the face, high fever, difficulty breathing or an injury to the mouth and face after an accident are medical emergencies, not orthodontic ones. In these cases call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department.
Select your situation below to see the first steps. This tool does not make a diagnosis and does not replace an assessment by your orthodontist. If you are ever unsure, call the clinic.
Select a situation; the first steps will appear here.
Aligner lost
- Contact the clinic by phone or WhatsApp and tell them which aligner you were wearing.
- Unless your orthodontist advises otherwise, you usually go back to the previous aligner.
- Do not move on to the next aligner on your own; your orthodontist decides which aligner to wear.
- Whether a new aligner is needed and how to obtain it is planned with the clinic.
For a lost aligner while travelling: travelling with clear aligners.
Aligner broken or cracked
- Do not keep wearing a broken aligner; it can irritate your mouth.
- Take a clear photo of the aligner and share it with the clinic.
- You are usually advised to wear the previous aligner and let the clinic know.
- Bring the broken aligner to your check-up.
Attachment came off
- Keep wearing your aligners.
- Contact the clinic; if possible, send a clear photo via WhatsApp.
- If you have the piece that came off, bring it to your check-up.
Aligner irritates tongue or cheek
- Do not try to cut or file the edge of the aligner yourself.
- Rinsing with lukewarm salt water a few times a day may soothe sores and irritation.
- Let the clinic know.
- If a sore lasts longer than a week, or pain and swelling increase, let the clinic know without waiting.
Pressure and sensitivity with a new aligner
- Pressure or sensitivity lasting 1–3 days each time you switch to a new aligner is normal.
- Switching to the new aligner just before bed helps you get through the first hours asleep.
- Choose soft foods in the first few days.
- If you need a pain reliever, use one you have taken without problems before, following its package leaflet; if you are unsure, ask your pharmacist.
- If the pain increases or does not go away, let the clinic know.
Fixed retainer wire came loose
- If you have a removable retainer, wear it.
- Book a check-up appointment within a few days; teeth can shift over time.
- Do not try to bend or cut the wire yourself.
About retainers: retainer treatment.
When you contact the clinic
- Briefly describe the problem: when did it start, is there any pain?
- If possible, send a clear photo via WhatsApp.
- Bring the broken aligner or the piece that came off with you.
For more situations, see our page on orthodontic emergencies. Phone: 0312 911 60 36. The address and opening hours are on the contact page.
This page is for general information only; it does not replace an examination or diagnosis.