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How to Prepare for Getting Your Braces Removed
The day you have been patiently waiting for is finally here: the braces are coming off. It’s time to finally say goodbye to the brackets, wires, and elastics. But as excited as you will be, there are some important things to know ahead of your final appointment so that you’re properly prepared.
Schedule your appointment appointment
The Canadian Association of Orthodontics recommends scheduling your appointment for a day when you have the remainder of the morning, afternoon, or evening to rest. Your teeth may feel slightly sore after the removal process, so it's best to clear your schedule for the day. It’s also possible that your appointment date could change due to unforeseen circumstances or if your treatment needs a bit more time. But don’t let this dishearten you. Your orthodontist knows best and will want to ensure that the results are everything you’ve hoped for.
Show up with your teeth thoroughly cleaned
It is crucial to maintain your oral hygiene throughout your treatment to avoid any potential dental issues. But proper oral care is also essential post-treatment to keep the results you've achieved. How your teeth will look without braces will depend on how you care for them during treatment. A diligent, at-home oral care routine consisting of brushing and flossing after each meal, and continuing to visit your dentist regularly for routine check-ups and cleanings, will make the results that much more satisfying.
Understand the removal process takes time
Removing your braces is much faster and easier than putting them on. But that's not to say it doesn’t still require a bit of patience. Even though it's a fairly simple process, it takes time to safely remove all of the brackets, wires, and rubber bands. Here's what to expect:
1. Your orthodontist will use dental pliers to remove each individual bracket, as well as the wire and elastics.
2. Your orthodontist will gently scrape and remove the cement holding the brackets to the teeth using a special tool.
3. Your teeth will then be polished to ensure a clean and smooth surface.
4. Once the cement is entirely removed, you will be fitted for your custom, removable retainer. Depending on your specific needs, a permanent retainer may be bonded behind your teeth.
Be prepared for different sensations
It’s common for patients to experience slight discomfort during the removal process. But this is entirely normal. A few minutes of minimal tension or pressure is well worth the final results you're about to see. The most important thing to remember is that the process is relatively painless, and it’ll be over before you know it.
Get ready for a retainer
All orthodontic patients are required to wear a retainer after treatment is complete. Though this can be bothersome after wearing appliances for so long, it's imperative to ensure that your teeth
don’t shift and stay in their corrected position. Thankfully, the retainer will only have to be worn at night while you're sleeping.
And last but certainly not least, enjoy your new smile!
Getting your braces removed is a significant transition. You can finally show off the smile you’ve been working diligently towards. Some patients may notice slight discoloration on their teeth after the braces are removed. If this is the case, speak to your dentist about scheduling a whitening appointment, or ask questions about at-home whitening options. Also, it's important to still visit your orthodontist post-treatment. They will ensure that your teeth are staying in shape, the retainer is working effectively, and that your new smile looks perfect.