A Complete Guide to Braces Removal: What to Expect During and After

Posted on May 18, 2021

Most kids and teenagers often find themselves in need of braces when growing up. Braces correct misaligned, overcrowded, crooked, and overlapping teeth. They can correct an overbite and an underbite and conditions where the upper and lower jaws are disproportional.

If your child already has braces, they will eventually have to be removed; the average child or teen wears braces for about two years. However, braces removal is not something that should be done at home. Dr. Khakhria will let you know when your treatment is complete and when your braces can be removed.

The braces removal process is an exciting time for anyone who has been undergoing orthodontic treatment. After months or even years of wearing braces, it’s finally time to reveal your beautifully aligned teeth. 

What is Braces Removal?

Braces removal is the final step in orthodontic treatment. It involves taking off the brackets and wires that have been straightening your teeth. 

What to Expect During The Braces Removal Process

Your child does not need prior preparation when getting their braces removed. All your child needs to do is brush their teeth and braces before the visit to the orthodontist. The removal procedure usually takes less than an hour.

Once you are at the orthodontist’s office, they will use special pliers to remove the wires and brackets on each tooth. The orthodontist will place the plier on each bracket to remove the braces, including the molar band. This dental procedure is painless, although you are likely to hear cracking noises.

When you arrive for your braces removal appointment, your orthodontist will first remove the brackets and wires from your teeth. This process is painless, but you may feel some pressure as the brackets are removed.

Next, your orthodontist will use a dental tool to remove any remaining adhesive or cement from your teeth. This process can sometimes be uncomfortable, but not painful.

After all the brackets and adhesive have been removed, your orthodontist will take an impression of your teeth. This is done to create a custom retainer that will help maintain the position of your teeth after your braces are removed.

What to Expect After Getting Your Braces Removed

After your braces are removed, you may experience some slight discomfort and sensitivity to your teeth, but this is normal and should go away within a few days.

You will be provided with instructions on how to care for your teeth and your new retainer after the removal of your braces. It’s important to follow the instructions given to make sure that your teeth continue to be properly aligned.

Types of Retainers

After your braces have been removed, you will need to wear a retainer to maintain the position of your teeth. There are several types of retainers to choose from, including:

• Hawley Retainer: This is a removable retainer that is made of wire and acrylic. It is custom-made to fit your teeth and is typically worn full-time for the first few months after braces removal.
• Clear Retainer: This is a removable retainer that is made of clear plastic. It is custom-made to fit your teeth and is typically worn full-time for the first few months after braces removal.
• Permanent Retainer: This is a thin wire that is attached to the back of your teeth. It is typically used for the bottom front teeth and is left in place permanently.

Your orthodontist will recommend the best type of retainer for your specific needs.

Maintaining Your New Smile

Your child should maintain proper oral hygiene and care once the braces have been removed. They should brush often, particularly after meals. A daily floss should also be included. Mouthwash and whitening creams are recommended for kids who have discoloration from the braces, but it’s best to consult with your child’s dentist.

If your child complains of teeth sensitivity or soreness after their braces are removed, consider removing hard and sticky foods from their diet. This includes hard bread, hard candies, popcorn, and raw vegetables. Sometimes you may notice that their gums are puffy following the braces removal procedure. This is not unusual, and it may take up to two months to resolve.

Make sure your child wears their retainer as instructed. Failure to do so may lead to a shift in their teeth, a condition that may force them to wear braces again.

Your child must maintain their dental hygiene after their braces are removed. They need to clean their teeth regularly as well as visit their dentist every six months.

Orthodontic Treatment Options in Plantation

At Jacaranda Smiles, we offer a variety of orthodontic treatment options for patients of all ages. In addition to traditional metal braces, we also offer clear aligners, ceramic braces, and lingual braces. Dr. Khakhria will work with you to determine the best treatment plan for your orthodontic needs.

Conclusion

Braces removal is the final step in orthodontic treatment, and it’s an exciting time for anyone who has been wearing braces. While the process of braces removal may be nerve-wracking for some patients, it’s important to remember that it’s a painless and straightforward procedure.

Remember to follow your orthodontist’s instructions on how to care for your teeth and retainer. This will help ensure that your teeth remain properly aligned and that you can enjoy your new smile for years to come.

At Jacaranda Smiles, we are committed to helping our patients achieve their perfect smile through personalized and comprehensive orthodontic care. Contact us today to schedule a free orthodontic evaluation.