Braces are a very popular device for straightening teeth in both adults and teenagers. Braces can correct various types of incorrect bite and position of the teeth. They are created to make the teeth straight and the smile beautiful. However, patients very often ask the question – what will happen when the time comes to remove the braces, and will it hurt?
Let’s say right away, in most cases, removing braces does not hurt, however, each patient is individual, and some may feel slight discomfort during the removal process.
How long should you wear braces?
It depends on several factors. The average duration of treatment with traditional metal braces is 12-24 months.
If a person has a minor malocclusion and only a few teeth need to be straightened, it may be enough to wear braces for a year. A person who has serious malocclusion, several crooked teeth, will have to wear braces for 2 years.
What factors determine the duration of wearing braces?
The more severe the condition of the teeth, the more time is needed for correction with braces. However, progress in orthodontics has made it possible to significantly reduce treatment time even in severe cases.
Although braces can be effective at any age, the treatment process may be faster for younger patients. This is because the jaw and teeth of children and teenagers are still forming, so they are more susceptible to correction. Adults may need to wear braces for a longer period of time because their bones are fully formed and less susceptible to change.
The duration of braces treatment can also largely depend on how strictly the patient follows the instructions of their orthodontist. This may include maintaining good oral hygiene, seeing your doctor regularly, and wearing any additional appliances such as gum or retainers as directed.
The experience and knowledge of the orthodontist can also affect the length of time braces are worn.
How to remove braces
The procedure takes very little time, it is much faster than installing braces.
First, the dentist will prepare the oral cavity. Then he applies a special protective silicone pad (retractor) that protects the tongue and gums during the removal of the elements of the brace system.
After that, the doctor uses a special tool to open the locks and remove the arc. Next, the entire system is carefully removed with forceps.
The patient may notice that his teeth have become slightly mobile. It should be, after some time this feeling should disappear. During this procedure, the patient may feel slight pressure, but it should not be painful.
The next step is to remove the adhesive from the tooth enamel. This is done with the help of a dental tip and special polishing rubbers of different abrasiveness. After which, finally, the teeth acquire a beautiful and healthy appearance.
If during orthodontic treatment the patient did not follow the doctor’s recommendations regarding oral hygiene carefully enough, after removing the brace system, a course of tooth enamel remineralization (saturation with various mineral components for complete restoration) may be required.
Sometimes tooth restoration is required: whitening, removal of carious formations and chips or other types of restoration of aesthetic defects. The doctor determines the need for specific procedures individually.
Braces can be removed only in the doctor’s office. Unprofessional attempts can damage soft tissues and teeth. The patient cannot do this on his own.
Pain during the removal of braces
Removing the braces should not cause pain, but you may feel pressure or some discomfort. However, if you’re still experiencing pain after your braces are removed, it’s important to see your doctor so they can determine the cause.
There are several reasons why a patient may experience pain. The most common of them is an infection in the mouth, tooth decay or other problems with the teeth.
Possible consequences of removing braces
The most common side effect of having braces removed is sore mouth. These sensations are associated with the relaxation of the jaw muscles after prolonged stress and the desire of the teeth to return to their former place.
The best way to reduce discomfort is to take over-the-counter pain relievers. You can also apply ice packs to your cheeks. Solid food should be avoided for several days.
Other possible side effects of braces removal include:
- temporary increased sensitivity of the teeth;
- pain in the gums at the place where the braces are attached;
- ulcers in the oral cavity.
How to care for teeth after removing braces
To maintain a healthy and beautiful smile, it is important to take care of your teeth even after the braces are removed.
- Continue brushing and flossing regularly.
- Visit your dentist regularly.
To fix the result of teeth alignment with the help of braces, retainers will help – these are custom-made devices in the form of caps that are worn on the teeth.
This device performs the role of tooth retainers, it is necessary to avoid relapse. Retainers help the teeth to be fixed in the correct position. Unlike braces, retainers are small and almost invisible.
They do not affect articulation, do not press on the teeth, but simply fix them.
The period of wearing retainers is determined individually by the orthodontist. It depends on the age of the patient (teenagers wear less, adults wear longer), bite, position of teeth, presence of bad habits (smokers, who usually have weakened immunity, will have to wear longer); health of the oral cavity (healthy teeth and tissues are fixed faster in the correct position).
Two main types of retainers are used – fixed or fixed and removable retainers. Sometimes a combination of these two types is used.
Removing braces can be a painless and simple process with a professional orthodontist. The key is to find an experienced professional who knows how to safely remove braces without damage or discomfort.