You’ve done it! You’ve diligently worn your braces for months, maybe even years, enduring check-ups and adjustments, all in pursuit of that perfect smile. Now, the day is finally here: the day you get your braces removed! It’s normal to feel excited. You’re one step closer to the smile you’ve always wanted.
This article will guide you through the braces removing process and explain what to expect immediately afterward. We’ll also discuss what you can do to maintain your newly straightened smile for years to come. Spoiler alert: following your orthodontist’s instructions is key!
Signs Your Braces Are Ready to Come Off
How will you know when your braces have done their job?
Here are some key indicators:
- Straighter Teeth: Your teeth should be visibly aligned and in the positions you and your orthodontist discussed.
- Fewer Adjustments Needed: Your orthodontist won’t need to make many (or any) adjustments during your appointments.
- Minimal Discomfort: You should experience little to no discomfort or pain during treatment.
- Closed Gaps: Any gaps or spaces between your teeth should be closed.
- Improved Bite: Your upper and lower teeth should align properly when you bite down.
Keep in mind that your orthodontist is the best judge of when your braces are ready to be removed. They’ll assess your progress and ensure that your teeth are properly aligned and stable.
How to prepare for braces removal
Getting your braces off shouldn’t be painful, but it can cause some discomfort. Here are some ways to prepare:
- Take a mild pain reliever. If you’re concerned about pain, you can take an over-the-counter painkiller like ibuprofen or acetaminophen before your appointment.
- Brush and floss. Removing plaque and debris will help your orthodontist see your teeth clearly and make the process go smoothly.
- Ask questions. Write down any questions you have about aftercare, retainer use, or anything else that’s on your mind.
What to Expect During the Braces Removal Process
So, you’re finally getting your braces off! Here’s a heads-up on what usually happens during the removal appointment.
Checking of the Teeth and Bite
First, your orthodontist will give your teeth and bite a thorough once-over to make sure everything’s aligned according to plan. They’re basically confirming that you’ve reached the finish line of your treatment.
Removing the Wires and Bands
Next up, the orthodontist will use some special instruments to carefully take out the archwires (those wires running across your brackets) and any elastic bands you might have been wearing.
Taking the Brackets Away from the Teeth
Using dental pliers, the orthodontist will gently squeeze or loosen each bracket to detach it from your tooth. You might feel a little pressure during this part, but it shouldn’t hurt.
Removing the Bonding Glue
After all the brackets are off, there’s usually some bonding adhesive (basically, the glue that held the brackets on) left behind. Your orthodontist will carefully remove this using a specialized drill or instrument. Think of it as a little teeth cleaning session.
Final Polishing
To make sure your teeth are super smooth and free of any remaining residue, they’ll get a good polishing. This step helps remove any lingering adhesive and smooths out the enamel surface.
Preparing the Mouth for Retainers
The last step is getting ready for your retainer. Your orthodontist will take impressions or digital scans of your teeth so they can create custom-fitted retainers that will keep your newly straightened smile in place.
How long does it take to get your braces off?
You should expect to be at the orthodontist’s office for about 45 minutes to an hour to have your braces removed.
However, the actual bracket removal is very quick. Most of the time is spent removing the adhesive, cleaning your teeth, and taking impressions to make your retainer.
Does it hurt when they take your braces off?
Most people don’t experience significant pain when their orthodontist removes their braces. But some people may feel a little discomfort or sensitivity.
Your teeth might be sensitive during and immediately after the removal. This is normal, and you can usually manage it with over-the-counter pain relievers.
Many people say that braces removal feels more like pressure than sharp pain.
Orthodontic Emergencies and Braces Removal
Most of the time, problems with braces can wait for a regularly scheduled appointment. However, some orthodontic emergencies may necessitate braces removal.
When is emergency braces removal necessary?
Although rare, some situations might require an immediate trip to the orthodontist or even the emergency room. These include:
- A severe allergic reaction to the materials in the braces
- Significant trauma to the mouth that damages the brackets and causes extreme pain
- An uncontrollable infection or inflammation around the braces
Other orthodontic emergencies that may NOT require braces removal
Some other problems with braces may seem scary, but usually don’t need immediate removal of the appliance. These include:
- Pokey wires: Your orthodontist can usually trim or adjust these.
- Broken brackets: These can often be re-bonded or temporarily stabilized until your next appointment.
- Loose bands: Your orthodontist can recement these.
Can I remove my braces myself?
Absolutely not. Please, please, please don’t try to take your braces off yourself. It’s tempting, I know, but it’s a really bad idea.
You could seriously hurt your teeth, gums, and the soft tissues in your mouth. Orthodontists use specialized tools and have the training to remove braces safely. If you try to do it yourself, you could end up with chipped teeth, infections, and a whole host of other problems.
Plus, even if you manage to get the brackets off, you probably won’t be able to remove all the adhesive. This can lead to staining and decay. Leave it to the professionals!
How to take care of your teeth after braces removal
Getting your braces off is a big deal! But it’s not the end of your orthodontic journey. Here’s how to keep your smile looking great:
- Wear your retainer: Your retainer is essential for keeping your teeth straight. There are two main types: removable and fixed. Removable retainers look like clear aligners or have a wire that goes across your teeth. A fixed retainer is a wire glued to the back of your teeth. No matter which kind you have, follow your orthodontist’s instructions exactly about how often to wear it.
- Brush and floss carefully: Just because the braces are gone doesn’t mean you can slack on your oral hygiene. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to gently brush your teeth twice a day. Floss daily to remove plaque and food particles. A fluoride mouthwash can also help protect your enamel.
- Watch what you eat: For a few days after your braces come off, avoid hard or sticky foods that could put pressure on your teeth.
- Keep going to the dentist: You still need regular check-ups with your dentist and follow-up appointments with your orthodontist to make sure everything is staying in place.
How much does it cost to remove braces?
Removing braces generally costs somewhere between $100 and a few hundred dollars.
The final price depends on the kind of braces you had and how complex the removal is. You may also need X-rays, which can add to the expense.
Some insurance plans may cover part of the removal cost, so it’s always a good idea to check your policy.
In Summary
Getting your braces off is an exciting milestone. After months or years of orthodontic treatment, you can finally see the smile you’ve been working toward!
To keep your smile straight and healthy for years to come, be sure to wear your retainer as directed by your orthodontist and take excellent care of your teeth and gums.
If you have any questions or concerns after your braces are removed, don’t hesitate to reach out to your orthodontist.