Is it time to say goodbye to your braces? Well, you might want to pump the brakes a little because timing is everything when it comes to braces removal.
While it’s tempting to just flash those perfect, braces-free pearly whites as soon as possible, you should hold out for the right time, with your trusty orthodontist’s guidance.
Let’s find out why rushing your braces journey doesn’t make sense!
Can I Take My Braces Off Early?
Isn’t it a pain to wear braces?
As a matter of fact, removing your braces early is not a good idea. They’re there to realign your teeth. Just as you wouldn’t take a cake out of the oven before it’s done, you shouldn’t remove your braces early, either.
Your orthodontist has carefully planned your treatment to make sure your teeth move at the right pace and in the right direction. You could let your teeth recede back to their original positions if you take off your braces too soon, as your teeth may not have fully moved into their new positions.
In addition, removing braces yourself can cause severe damage to your teeth and gums.
Does Getting Your Braces Removed Hurt?
Here’s the big question: “Does having your braces removed hurt?” Well, brace yourself (pun intended) — it’s painless and straightforward!
Your orthodontist will use a special tool to gently squeeze each bracket on your teeth. You might feel a bit uncomfortable when the brackets come loose, but that’s to be expected.
As soon as your brackets are removed, it is time to remove any adhesive that has remained on your teeth. In most cases, this process does not hurt, but it can feel odd, like when you get your teeth cleaned during a regular dental check-up. Even though it isn’t the most enjoyable feeling in the world, it’ll be over in no time!
Once your braces are removed, you might experience some sensitivity on your teeth for a few days due to the fact that they’ve been covered up for such a long time. It’s completely normal, and it will fade away in no time!
Should I Remove My Braces Myself?
DIY braces removal isn’t something you want to take on!
As your braces are cemented onto your teeth, you might damage them by trying to pry them off yourself. Chips, cracks, and worse are all possible. Not to mention that you may damage your gums as well!
In addition, your orthodontic treatment process was specially designed to move your teeth in a specific manner. It’s possible to mess up all that hard work if you take off your braces too early, causing your teeth to shift back to their original position, so you’d have to go through the braces process again if you take them off too soon.
You should always have your braces removed by a professional. It may seem frustrating to have to wear them for so long, and you probably want to see your new smile, but patience is key. When you finally have time to remove them, your orthodontist will do so safely and painlessly. It’ll be worth it when you see your braces-free smile in the mirror!
A Breakdown of the Braces Removal Process
You’re about to have your braces removed! Perhaps you’re feeling a mix of excitement and anxiety.
Let’s walk you through the process step by step, and hopefully ease any worries you might have!
Preparing for the Braces Removal Process
You don’t have to worry about preparing for your braces removal appointment at all. All you need to do is keep your oral hygiene game strong! Your orthodontist will really appreciate a clean canvas for treatment.
During Your Braces Removal Appointment
When removing braces, your orthodontist will gently squeeze the brackets around your teeth, causing the adhesive bond to break. There’s no pain at all — just a strange pressure sensation. They’ll also take off the bands around your back teeth.
After everything’s off, your orthodontist will remove any leftover glue. After about an hour, you’ll be brace-free once again!
It is crucial to take impressions of your teeth after braces are removed so your orthodontist can create a removable retainer. You’ve come this far — you don’t want your teeth to relapse into their old positions, right? Retainers keep your teeth in their new positions.
What to Do After Your Braces are Removed
Even though you’re brace-free, the journey isn’t quite over! Aftercare is as important as the braces journey itself, so make sure you keep up with your dental hygiene routines as much as you can.
Your teeth might feel strange and sensitive after the braces come off, and that’s completely normal. You should use a toothpaste made specifically for sensitive teeth to alleviate the discomfort. Maintaining optimal oral hygiene is essential because your teeth are more prone to cavities after braces come off.
If your orthodontist recommends a removable retainer, wear it as directed. It may feel strange at first, but your mouth will adjust.
Keep regular dental appointments. Now that your braces are off, your dentist will be able to reach those spots which were previously hidden by brackets and wires.
Most importantly, flash your dazzling smile! Show off those straight pearly whites you’ve been working on for so long. You’ve earned it! Take a breath and appreciate your journey when you see your spectacular, brace-free smile!
Loudoun Orthodontics Makes Removing Braces a Breeze!
Contact Loudoun Orthodontics if you think orthodontic treatment is the solution to your dental woes. Whether you want to learn more about the benefits of orthodontic treatment or have questions about the process, use our live chat or call (703) 858-0303 or send us a message through our contact us page to connect with our friendly staff today to book a complimentary orthodontic consultation! Our office, located at 19465 Deerfield Ave, Suite 304, Leesburg, VA 20176, proudly serves not just Loudoun County but also the Greater Washington DC area. So, if you’re residing in Ashburn, Lansdowne, or Sterling, and are looking for one of the best orthodontists in Virginia, don’t hesitate to visit our office! We also invite you to keep up with our blog to get answers to many of the frequently asked questions about maintaining sparkling oral health, and follow us on Facebook and Instagram to become a part of our smiling community!
References
- Lee, Dr. Richard. “The Journey to Having Perfect, Straight Teeth!” Patuxent Orthodontics, Patuxent Orthodontics, patuxentorthodontics.com/the-journey-to-having-perfect-straight-teeth/. Accessed 30 May 2023.