The long-awaited day is finally approaching! Soon, you will get your braces removed so you can start enjoying all the benefits of your freshly straightened smile. But what should you expect as you transition to life after orthodontic treatment? This blog post offers a guide to the removal process and what you will have to do to maintain your results.
The Removal Appointment
Many patients are nervous about what it will feel like to get their braces taken off. There is nothing to worry about. Braces are designed to come off of the teeth with ease; your orthodontic team will use a special tool to pop the brackets right off. You might feel a smidge of pressure, but overall, the process should be fast and painless. Once the braces are off, any remaining adhesive will be buffed off of your enamel.
Before you leave your appointment, your orthodontic team may take some posttreatment records and design your retainer.
Adjusting to Your Braces-Free Smile
It is common for patients to experience swollen gums and sensitive teeth during the first few days after their braces get removed. Sticking to soft foods for a while, rinsing your mouth with warm salt water, and maintaining an excellent oral hygiene routine can help you cope with such symptoms. If you are not feeling better within a few days, it is fine to give your orthodontist a call with any questions or concerns that are weighing on your mind.
Maintaining Your Results
Teeth have a sort of memory. Without braces to keep them in place, they will start to drift back into their former positions. The best way to stop that from happening is through the use of a retainer.
Some retainers can be fixed in the mouth, while others are removable. If you receive a removable one, be sure to follow your orthodontist’s instructions for how to use it. At first, you may need to wear it 20 – 22 hours each day, removing it only when you eat and clean your mouth. After some time, though, you may be required to wear it only a few nights each week. If it ever starts to feel unusually tight, that is a sign you are not using it enough.
Are you looking forward to seeing your new smile? Your orthodontist will give you everything you need to successfully transition to life after braces.
Meet the Practice
Richardson Orthodontics is proud to be home to three talented orthodontists: Drs. Tamara Jones, Megan Hanson, and Stephanie Amerson. If you are thinking about getting braces or have any questions about the treatment process, they and our team would be happy to speak with you. Contact our office at 972-238-7101.