Braces are a very popular device for straightening teeth with both adults and teenagers. They can correct various types of malocclusion and tooth positioning. They are designed to make your teeth straight and your smile beautiful. However, patients are often worried about braces removal process and wonder if it is painful.
In most cases, removing braces is not painful. However, each patient is unique and some may experience mild discomfort during the removal process.
How long should you wear braces?
It depends on several factors. The average treatment period for 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 got a serious malocclusion or several crooked teeth, will need to wear braces for 2 years.
What factors determine the duration of wearing braces?
The more severe the dental condition, the longer it takes to correct it with braces. However, advancements in orthodontics have significantly reduced treatment time even in difficult cases.
While braces can be effective at any age, the treatment process may be shorter for younger patients. This is because the jaw and teeth of children and adolescents are still forming, so they are more susceptible to correction. Adults may need to wear braces for a longer period since their bones are fully formed and less responsive to changes.
The duration of braces correction may largely depend on how strictly the patient follows the instructions of their orthodontist. This may include maintaining proper oral hygiene, attending regular check-ups, and wearing any additional appliances, such as rubber bands or retainers, as recommended.
The experience and proficiency of the orthodontist can also affect the time you need to wear braces.
How are braces removed?
The procedure takes very little time, it is much faster than installing braces.
First, the dentist prepares the oral cavity. Then he/she applies a special protective silicone pad (retractor) that protects the tongue and gums during the removal of the braces. The patient may notice that his teeth have become a little movable. This is normal and should disappear after soon. During this procedure, the patient may feel slight pressure, but it should not be painful.
The next step involves removing the adhesive from the tooth enamel. This is done using a dental tip and special polishing rubbers of different abrasiveness levels. After that, the teeth finally regains a beautiful and healthy appearance.
If during orthodontic treatment the patient did not carefully follow the doctor’s recommendations regarding oral hygiene, after removing the braces, a course of remineralization of teeth enamel (saturation with various mineral components for complete restoration) may be required.
Sometimes dental restoration is needed, such as teeth whitening, treatment of cavities, chip repairs, or other aesthetic restorations. The doctor determines the need for specific procedures individually.
Braces should be removed only in the doctor’s office. Soft tissues and teeth can be damaged unless it‘s done professionally.
Pain during braces removal
Braces removal should not cause pain, but you may feel pressure or some discomfort. However, if you still experience pain after the braces are removed, it’s important to contact your dentist so they can identify the cause.
There are several reasons why a patient might feel pain. The most common are infections in the oral cavities, or other dental issues.
Possible consequences of braces removal
The most common side effect of braces removal is mouth pain. These feelings are associated with the relaxation of the jaw muscles after prolonged strain and the attempts of the teeth to return to their original position.
The best way to reduce discomfort is to take over-the-counter pain relief. Applying ice compresses to your cheeks may also be helpful. Solid food should be avoided for several days.
Other possible side effects of braces removal include:
- Temporary increased tooth sensitivity
- Gum pain in the areas where the braces were attached
- Mouth ulcers
How to care for your teeth after braces removal
To maintain a healthy and beautiful smile, a proper care for your teeth even after your braces are removed includes:
- Regular brushing and flossing.
- Regular visits to your dentist.
Retainers– custom-made devices in the form of mouth caps that are worn on the teeth – will help to consolidate the result of teeth straightening with braces.
These devices act as stabilizers, helping to prevent relapse. Retainers hold the teeth in their correct positions and are much smaller and less noticeable than braces. They do not affect articulation, do not put pressure on the teeth, but simply fix them.
The period of wearing retainers is determined by the ortodontist individually. It depends on the patient’s age (teenagers typically wear them for a shorter time, while adults wear them longer), bite, tooth position, bad habits (smokers, who usually have weakened immunity, will have to wear longer); oral health (healthy teeth and tissues are fixed in the correct position faster).
There are two main types of retainers used: fixed or non-removable retainers 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 main thing is to find an experienced professional to remove braces without damage or discomfort.