So much work goes into perfectly aligning your smile, and it is finally time for you to enjoy it! As you approach your braces removal appointment, Elm Tree Orthodontics is here to help you stay knowledgeable about your next steps. Read on to learn what you can expect when you get your braces off, the importance of retainers, caring for your teeth post-treatment, and much more!
Unveiling the Smile Behind Your Braces
The first step is clipping off the archwire that supports the appliance, removing any elastics or additional components like orthodontic bands. Our team will then use special pliers to remove the brackets from each tooth. This step takes most of the procedure time, as we do so gently to avoid any pain.
From here, we remove glue residue left on your teeth by smoothing it out with a high-speed drill. This step may be comfortable for some, as drills are typically associated with in-depth dental work, but only we go as far as the surface to get the job done. Our expert team assures you this step will be done before you know it!
Just like that, your appliance is removed! On the day of your braces removal appointment, our team will discuss exactly what will happen during the procedure so you know what to expect each step of the way. You can expect it to last no more than an hour.
Will My Teeth Hurt Afterwards?
Your teeth will likely be sore for a few days after your braces are removed. For over a year, they have adjusted to constant slight pressure, so they will need time to settle into place and get used to their new position.
The procedure itself, though, is painless. You may feel slight discomfort as we use many tools to get the job done, though they won’t be the cause of any aches. If you begin to feel uneasy or need a break at any point, please let our team know, and we can take a breather.
We will continue to ask you how you are doing during the procedure and ensure everything is going well. Please let us know if there is anything we can do to help!
The Importance of Retainers
As you know from wearing braces, your teeth will shift over time. However, even without the pressure placed on them by this appliance, your teeth continue to change positioning on their own. After completing treatment, they will naturally return to their original placement if left alone, so Elm Tree Orthodontics provides each patient with retainers, one for the top teeth and one for the bottom teeth.
Retainers are custom-made dental appliances that fit perfectly over your teeth and keep them in place so you can sustain your smile long-term. They are typically worn for about six months full-time to help your teeth and gums settle into place. Afterward, they can be worn exclusively during the nighttime. If you misplace or damage your retainer, please contact our office so we can offer you a replacement.
Types Available
Our office provides two kinds of retainers: removable and fixed. The former is made of plastic, metal, or a combination. You must remember to stick to your prescribed schedule to keep your teeth in the best alignment possible.
Fixed retainers are thin, curved wires placed on the inner tooth surface. They typically only cover your front four to six teeth as they are the most likely to shift position. Some patients receive a combination of the two types to suit their needs.
Transitioning to Life Without Braces
Calluses
As your mouth adjusts to not having your braces attached, you may notice changes inside your mouth, such as calluses. These are small, hardened areas of skin in the mouth that typically form due to friction caused by wires or brackets. You may not notice them until your appliance is removed, but rest assured, they will go away with time.
Adjusting To Eating
After getting used to eating almost exclusively soft foods, it may take your teeth time to get used to the sensation of eating crunchy or hard things again. They may also be slightly sore soon after your braces are removed, so gradually adjusting your mouth to a fully inclusive diet will help bring you back to normalcy.
Discoloration
Cleaning your entire teeth’ surface with areas covered by brackets was impossible. As a result, you may see spotty yellow discoloration in certain areas. This will naturally disappear, but you can support the process with regular oral hygiene upkeep. If you still notice patchy areas, ask Dr. Desai how long to wait until considering teeth whitening after treatment.
Caring For Your Teeth After Braces
Drink Lots of Water
Never underestimate water’s role in taking proper care of your teeth! Water naturally contains fluoride, which strengthens your enamel and prevents tooth decay. It can also flush away loose food and plaque from your teeth.
Maintain Your Oral Health
Another great step is upholding your general oral health routines. Remembering to brush and floss your teeth daily will help keep them in excellent condition for longer. Doing so removes built-up plaque, tartar, or pesky pieces of leftover food from past meals. You can also rinse with mouthwash, but use it in your routine instead of replacing it.
Managing Pain Relief
Any pain or discomfort you feel after getting your braces removed will go away with time. However, if it interrupts your daily routine, you can ask Dr. Desai what over-the-counter pain medication he recommends based on your symptoms. You may also rinse your mouth for thirty seconds with warm salt water to eliminate any lingering bacteria causing discomfort.
Reap the Benefits of Your New Smile!
Elm Tree Orthodontics continues to be your support system, even after your braces are removed. We strive to make the entire experience positive and efficient as you enter this new phase in your oral health. We provide reliable orthodontic services in Connecticut to Hamden, North Haven, and the surrounding communities. Schedule your free consultation with us to start treatment today.