What Happens If You Swallow Your Braces Bracket

Posted on 3/8/2021 by Alyce

While swallowing your braces bracket is not a common problem, making this mistake is likely to get you panicking.

You may have come across a recent case where a woman in Australia swallowed her braces wire and had to get it surgically removed from her intestines a decade after having her orthodontics removed.

At Timothy H. Kindt, DDS, we are equipped to tackle emergency situations and offer consultation for several other dental problems. To schedule an appointment, give us a call at (480) 939-5818 today.

Don't worry; it's not the end of the world if you accidentally swallow the bracket. In fact, there is a good chance you may not have to go through any surgery at all. Here are 4 things to keep in mind if this ever happens:

It is Often Harmless

Swallowing a part of your braces is not a life-threatening situation. The bracket usually goes straight to your belly like other food items. Most braces brackets are made from titanium or porcelain, so they do not have an adverse reaction to digestive juices.

It Will Probably Pass Naturally

It is most likely that the braces part will rest inside your stomach for a while, then travel through your intestines, and eventually pass out of your system along with other waste materials. It is only a matter of time when nature will call and you will get rid of the foreign object.

Possibility of a Stomachache or Breathing Problems

In rare cases, gastric juice may corrode titanium and porcelain, releasing materials that may result in a stomachache. This is why some people may complain about stomach-related complications, such as aches and heartburn.

A foreign object may get directed towards the breathing system in your body and get stuck near the lungs or windpipe. This may cause slow and heavy breathing or chest pain.

When Should You Seek Help?

If you experience a stomachache or face breathing issues, consult your doctor immediately. They will likely take an x-ray to determine the situation and the necessary remedial measures. Surgery is rarely required. In case it becomes necessary, it is usually a relatively simple procedure.

If you accidentally swallow your braces bracket, you will need to visit a dentist to get it replaced.

Dr. Kindt - Dentist in Mesa, AZ

Dr. Kindt has over 25 years expertise in all facets of dentistry, including fillings, root canal therapy, extractions, soft tissue management for periodontal disease, and dental implants. He excels in cosmetic dental procedures, including cosmetic bonding, veneers, all porcelain crowns, and whitening.
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"The first thought that comes to mind for this dental office is "kindness". Perhaps the Kind in Dr. Kindt's name was meant to be! Dr. Kindt and his staff offer the very best in dental care. I recently had extensive cosmetic dental work done and am delighted with the results. The great thing is that people notice my lovely teeth and I get lots of compliments when I smile. I consider Dr. Tim an artist when it comes to dental work. In addition to beautiful work the next best thing is that during hours of extensive work I experienced NO discomfort or pain. The final results combined with the utmost care for my comfort make it easy for me to give this dental office a five star rating." ~ Elaine S.

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Timothy H. Kindt, DDS, 1244 N Greenfield Rd, Suite 105, Mesa, AZ 85205 • (480) 939-5818 • drkindt.com • 1/14/2026 • Page Keywords: Dentist Mesa AZ •