What Happens When My Braces Come Off?

By Holly Landis

Freelance work written for Stroope Orthodontics 

Article also featured here.

The day you have been hoping and dreaming for has finally come—your braces are about to be removed. While you might be doing your happy dance and scheduling photoshoots to show off your new smile, you’re also probably wondering, “What happens during and after my braces removal appointment?"
It’s a common question, and there are several answers. Here are some things to expect once that exciting day of braces removal arrives:

REMOVAL SHOULD BE PAIN FREE

Your appointment should last approximately an hour and there is no prep required on your part. Pliers will most likely be used to remove the braces and you should not feel pain at all (although your teeth may feel sensitive for a few days from the pressure of the removal).

TEETH MIGHT FEEL A LITTLE WEIRD

After your braces are removed, your teeth will probably feel weird, but in a good way. They will be even, lined-up and not blocked by any hardware like they were with your braces on. You might feel some tooth sensitivity and your gums and teeth might feel tender from getting the brackets and everything removed, but that should all go away in a few days.
Tips to Alleviate Your Teeth Sensitivity:

• As an extra precaution, you will want to avoid eating foods that are very cold, crunchy, and sticky until that sensitivity is gone and your teeth feel back to normal.
• Protect your teeth from food residue and bacteria by continuing a great oral hygiene routine. Brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes each time and floss every day.

FITTED FOR A RETAINER

When your braces are removed, your teeth will look straight and aligned, but they won’t stay that way on their own. You will receive a retainer to help keep your teeth in place. Depending on your mouth and the nature of your teeth, you may be required to wear your retainer daily or every night while sleeping.
Tips to Get the Most Out of Your Retainer:

• Be sure to wear your retainer as much as your dentist recommends to preserve all that hard work and keep your teeth from shifting.
• Take care of your retainer by cleaning it often and removing any stuck food particles.
• Make sure not to leave it on a napkin when you are eating a meal or else it may accidentally be thrown away.
• When not wearing your retainer, store it safely in its case to protect it from dust and breakage. Remember to clean the case regularly too!

SCHEDULE A DENTAL EXAM AND CLEANING
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It's a good idea to schedule a follow-up visit with your dentist to check in on your newly aligned smile. Contact our team to schedule a follow-up appointment or to ask any questions about how to care for your retainer and your beautiful smile!