Congratulations, your orthodontic treatment is coming to an end! Soon, you’ll be able to showcase your beautiful new smile. But before you break out the confetti, you still need to get your braces removed. Here’s what you can expect from that step, and how to care for your teeth after your wires and brackets have been taken off.
How Are Braces Removed?
Getting your braces removed is quite a fast and easy procedure. Your orthodontist will use a special instrument that pops the brackets off your teeth very gently. This method is both quick and painless, so no need to worry about sensitivity during the procedure, however it’s possible that you may still feel some discomfort in the days following their removal as your teeth get adjusted to being bare again. This can be easily managed with OTC pain reliever.
Once your equipment is off, your orthodontist will polish any remaining bits of cement off your teeth. This is also painless and will leave your teeth feeling smooth and clean. Once they are completely clean, an impression will be made for your retainers to be created with. You may also get some images and X-rays taken at this time, and you’ll need to return to see your orthodontist again once your retainers are ready.
Moving Forward
Now that your braces are removed, you can enjoy life with your new smile. Be sure to wear your retainers exactly as your orthodontist prescribes so that your teeth do not shift back to their old alignment.
Your mouth will be much easier to clean now, but you’ll still need to brush twice a day and floss at least once a day. You may also begin to eat a full diet again with no restrictions; however, you may still feel a little sensitive chewing for a few days as your teeth get used to their new wire-free positioning.
Finally, be sure to schedule your next dental exam and cleaning with your regular dentist as soon as possible. This will allow you to get your teeth nice and clean again and give your dentist the opportunity to update your X-rays and screen for any cavities that may have formed during your orthodontic treatment.
Remember, getting your braces off is an exciting time in anyone’s life, and certainly nothing to be afraid of. Soon you’ll be ready to show off all that effort getting straighter teeth and share your beautiful new smile with the world!
About Dr. Drabik
Dr. Stan Drabik has been providing top quality, compassionate orthodontic care for over two decades, and he’s still as enthusiastic about it as he was when he began. If you’re looking for a way to straighten your teeth and improve your smile, let Dr. Drabik and the team help you create a masterpiece with the help of braces.
To schedule a consultation, or to book your end of treatment appointments, please visit our website or call Drabik Orthodontics today at 585-872-4660 for Webster, or 585-730-7700 for our Rochester location.