What You Should Know About Getting Braces Removed
Having braces removed is an exciting milestone for many people, and the journey to a perfect smile doesn’t end there. After your orthodontic treatment is complete, it’s important to take the necessary steps to ensure that you maintain your new beautiful smile. From preparing for the removal of your braces to what comes next in terms of continued oral health care, here’s everything you need to know about getting braces off and taking care of your teeth afterwards.
What to Expect
The braces removal procedure is usually quick and painless, though it does leave your teeth and mouth feeling a little slimy afterwards. Most orthodontists use special pliers to remove the brackets from your teeth, then cut through the arch wire with wire cutters. Once the brackets have been removed from your teeth, the orthodontist will floss and brush your teeth to clean away any leftover glue. The entire procedure usually takes about 10-15 minutes, it’s a very quick process with little drama.
What Come Next
After your braces have been removed, it’s important to take certain measures to ensure that your teeth stay in their new perfect alignment. Wearing a retainer is essential in keeping teeth from shifting back into their pre-braces positions and will help prevent needing future treatment. Retainers are usually made of molded plastic and metal wires and should be worn as directed by your orthodontist. It’s also vitally important to keep up with the brushing and flossing, preferably twice a day. The last thing you want for your newly aligned teeth is to get a bunch of new cavities and other issues!
The Value of Continued Checkups
After having braces removed, it’s important to go in for follow-up checkups every so often to make sure that the progress you have made stays. These visits to the orthodontist provide an opportunity for them to evaluate your teeth and mouth, as well as answer any questions or concerns you might have about your oral health. During the appointment, they may also take X-rays and photos to help monitor your progress. Be diligent in attending these appointments so you don’t lose any of your hard-fought progress.
But look at that; you did it! After all those years of wires and brackets, your braces have finally come off. That’s something to celebrate for sure. But before you put this entire experience behind you, remember that your work is not quite done yet. In order to keep your teeth looking nice and straight, you’ll need to wear a retainer as directed by your orthodontist. And of course, don’t forget to brush and floss daily! Congratulations on making it through braces—here’s to happy and healthy teeth in the future.
Check out this article on why brushing alone can’t keep your teeth clean!