Short Answer: If you accidentally swallow a brace, most likely nothing will happen.
A brace is a metal or ceramic device that is attached to the teeth to correct their alignment and improve the appearance of the smile.
Braces consist of brackets, wires, and sometimes rubber bands that apply pressure on the teeth and move them into the desired position.
If you accidentally swallow a brace, most likely nothing will happen.
The brace will pass through your digestive system and be eliminated in your stool.
Your stomach acids will dissolve as much of the brace as they can, and the rest will not cause any harm.
This is because braces are made of materials that are biocompatible and non-toxic.
Braces are usually made of stainless steel, titanium, nickel, or ceramic.
These materials can resist corrosion and do not react with the body fluids.
However, in some rare cases, swallowing a brace can be dangerous.
It can cause choking if it gets stuck in your throat or airway.
It can also cause perforation or obstruction if it gets lodged in your esophagus, stomach, or intestines.
This can lead to symptoms such as pain when swallowing, chest pain, difficulty breathing, severe stomach pain, and abdomen pain.
It is quite uncommon to swallow a brace due to the way they are attached to the teeth.
Braces are cemented to the teeth with a special adhesive that prevents them from falling off easily.
However, sometimes braces can become loose or detached due to biting into hard or sticky foods, trauma to the mouth, or poor oral hygiene.
If you swallowed a brace, keep calm and do not panic. Most of the time, the brace will pass naturally and not cause any problems.
Be aware of any symptoms that indicate a problem. If you experience any of the symptoms mentioned above, seek medical attention immediately. You may need an X-ray or an endoscopy to locate and remove the brace.
Also, you may need to replace your brace to avoid any delays in your treatment progress. Your orthodontist will also check your other braces for any damage or looseness.
To avoid accidental swallowing of braces, you should avoid eating hard or sticky foods that can damage or dislodge your braces. Some examples are nuts, popcorn, caramel, gum, ice, hard candy, etc.
Also, visit your orthodontist regularly for adjustments and checkups. Your orthodontist will monitor your treatment progress and make sure your braces are in good condition.
Wear a mouth guard if you play contact sports or engage in activities that can injure your mouth. This will protect your teeth and braces from trauma.
Finally, remember, braces are an effective way to improve your smile and oral health.
They are designed to be safe and comfortable for you. However, if you swallow a brace by accident, do not panic and follow the steps above.