Getting Braces Off: What to Expect

Getting braces has become a rite of passage for most teenagers, but there is no more exciting day in an adolescent’s life than getting their braces off. While this is a very exciting time, it can be scary too if you do not know what to expect. Your days with braces may be coming to end, but that does not mean your teeth can be ignored.

The process of getting braces off is a lot easier than you would think, and you should only be in our office for about an hour. You will feel absolutely no pain when we remove your braces. We will use pliers to remove all of the braces and to get rid of any glue that may be left on your teeth. It may be scary to see someone come towards your mouth with a pair of pliers, but you will feel absolutely no pain. We are thoroughly trained and have done this too many times to count. It should only take a few minutes to get the brackets and glue out of your mouth.

Your appointment is not over when your braces are removed. We will have to take molds of your mouth to fit you for a retainer. Almost everyone has to wear a retainer after getting their braces off to prevent the teeth shifting out of place. If you do not wear your retainer as directed, then your teeth can become misaligned. Each patient has to wear his or her retainer for a different length of time, but expect to use the retainer for at least a few years.

Once you leave the office, your teeth should be perfectly straight. If you did not properly clean your teeth while wearing the braces, then there may be small yellow tartar stains or white spots on your teeth. It may take some time, but these stains should be able to remove after a proper dental cleaning.

You may have the urge to rush out and eat all of the foods you could not eat while wearing braces, but this is one of the worst things you can do. Your teeth and gums are going to be very sensitive for a while after removing braces. You have to slowly transition into eating crunchy and chewy foods to avoid any potential pain. Avoiding any bleaching or whitening treatments is also a must. This will only make your teeth more sensitive than they already are.

In addition to the possible sensitivity, you will also have to get used to wearing your retainer. It might be uncomfortable for the first few days. It is also common to talk slightly different and drool while wearing the retainer for the first few days. Once you get used to the retainer, you should have no more problems.

Whether you’re just starting orthodontic treatment or you’re about to get your braces off, Runnels Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics can help. Doctor Scott Runnels works with patients of all ages to help them achieve beautiful, straight teeth. Contact Runnels Orthodontics today to schedule your consultation and our staff will help you on your journey to that million-dollar smile.