After a long and possibly difficult period of wearing braces, you are now ready to remove them. Your orthodontist has told you that the braces will be removed at your next visit. In preparation, find out what the process of removing the braces is like and what to do afterward.
Step
Part 1 of 3: Preparing for a Braces Removal Procedure
Step 1. Know when the braces will be removed
You need to know exactly when the process will take place in order to be prepared. That's an important moment. There's no exact time, but doctors will let you know when it's time. If you are not sure, please ask.
- Once you know when, you can read stories from other people's experiences.
- You can also find videos on the procedure for removing stirrups on the internet.
- Remember that everyone's experience is different.
Step 2. Understand that release may be delayed
Even if your doctor has told you that your braces will be removed at your next visit, there may be a delay. Doctors only give best estimates, not exact dates.
- It is possible that your teeth will shift unexpectedly between this month's visit and the following month.
- Or, shifting gears is not enough and takes longer with braces. A week or two can already make a big difference in the final result.
- If this happens, don't lose heart. Braces will definitely be removed at the right time.
Step 3. Make sure you keep your teeth clean
As long as you are wearing braces, you must keep your teeth and mouth clean. The appearance of teeth without braces will be determined by how well you care for them. If your teeth are left untreated, you may see yellow tartar on your teeth.
Do not slacken your teeth cleaning routine when the use of braces is almost over
Step 4. Take a picture of your mouth
Try photographing the last days of wearing braces as a memento. You can use it as a "before" photo and compare it to the photo after the braces are removed. The use of braces is not an ordinary matter, so is removing it. So, document this one life transition.
Part 2 of 3: Understanding the Process of Removing Braces
Step 1. Know how long it will take
There is no fixed length of time to remove the braces. However, one thing you can be sure of, the process is much faster than installation. The whole thing may take about an hour, including removing the braces, cleaning, and other procedures.
- The removal of the braces only takes a few minutes.
- After the stirrup is removed, there are other actions that the doctor must take.
Step 2. Know how the braces will be removed
To remove the braces, the doctor uses special pliers to remove the braces one by one to separate them from the teeth. Usually, the braces will remain intact and this process is repeated until they are all removed. Some types of ceramic braces are designed to break when they are removed from the teeth.
- If you hear cracking or other strange noises, that's normal. Don't worry if you hear a sound like that.
- The doctor will also remove the wires that connect the braces on each tooth.
- You will feel pressure when the braces or wires are removed, but there is little or no pain.
Step 3. Get ready for cleaning
After the stirrup is removed, there are remnants of glue or plaster attached. Doctors have to clean it with special tools. Usually, this process takes no more than five minutes, depending on how much glue is stuck to the teeth.
- There may be some pain during this process, depending on the sensitivity of the teeth.
- You may be impatient to see the new teeth, but be patient.
Step 4. Know that the doctor will make an impression for your tooth anchor
After the braces are removed and the tooth is cleaned of glue, the doctor will usually make a mold for the retainer. Almost everyone who has removed their stirrups will have to put on the brace first.
- There are some cases that require permanent restraint. This means that the doctor will tie metal or fiberglass wires behind the rows of teeth.
- The doctor may start making impressions for the brace about a week before the braces are removed.
- Or, prints are made the following week.
Part 3 of 3: Knowing What to Do Next
Step 1. Prepare to wear the brace for a while
Don't be surprised if your doctor starts measuring your teeth to make braces. Braces are essential for keeping teeth in their new position, and many doctors recommend wearing braces for years after the braces are removed. However, usage time varies from person to person.
- Dental braces must be treated
- Treatment includes cleaning it well and keeping it from getting lost.
- Make sure you use the braces as recommended or the whole process of using the braces will be wasted.
Step 2. Get used to the hold
It may take some time and patience to get used to the brace, but it's an important part of the straightening method. The hold may feel strange in your mouth, and make it difficult for you to speak or become slurred.
- The best way to get used to it is to talk and sing often.
- After a few days of practice like this, the lisp will disappear.
- If you think you're drooling too much, don't worry. That's part of the adaptation process that will wear off in a few days.
- Make sure you wear the brace as directed by your doctor. After a while, you only need to use it at night.
Step 3. Treat the teeth after the braces are removed
Don't immediately look for chewy foods that can't be eaten while still wearing braces. Let your teeth adapt and recover first. Talk to your doctor about how to take care of your teeth after the braces are removed. If you follow your doctor's instructions, your teeth will get better, and you'll be able to leave the brace faster.
- Newly exposed enamel will be very sensitive and dry. So, wait at least a month before getting a whitening treatment.
- Consult with your doctor about a safe way to whiten stains on your teeth due to the use of braces. There are many ways to whiten teeth, including home remedies that don't use chemicals.
Step 4. Know that you should continue to visit the dentist
You should visit regularly after the braces are removed and while wearing the brace. The doctor will check to make sure that your smile and teeth are in perfect alignment.
Make an appointment for a few weeks after the braces are removed
Tips
- Clean the retainer in the morning and evening. If not cleaned, the holder will start to smell.
- Be prepared to smile a lot and show your teeth after the braces are removed.
- Take care of the braces as it will cost a lot of money to replace them. So, don't wrap the holder in a tissue because it could accidentally be thrown away.
- Place the holder in the container before you eat.
Warning
- If you don't wear braces, the teeth will return to their original alignment. The holding function is withhold the position of your new teeth and smile.
- Some people have to wear braces for some time. So, be prepared.
- Discuss the pros and cons of different types of braces with your doctor.
- You may be slurred when wearing braces.
