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How long does it take to remove braces?

teen smiles before her braces removal appointment

Toward the end of your braces treatment, you’re probably feeling a bit antsy about getting your braces removed. We don’t blame you; it’s a big deal!

The best way to combat anxieties or apprehension is through education. The more you know, the less you fear! Your friends at Local Orthodontics are here to ease any anxieties about your final braces removal appointment. We’ve got the answers you’re looking for.

 

How long is my final braces removal appointment?

You’ll be relieved to know that the braces removal process takes less time than your initial exam and the placement of your braces. In most cases, it takes under an hour to remove braces.

Here’s what you can expect:

  1. Your orthodontist, Dr. Jewett, will use a special plier tool to squeeze each bracket and gently separate it from the tooth. 
  2. Next, the metal bands that anchored your braces to your back molars will be removed.
  3. Once your brackets and molar bands are detached, Dr. Jewett will remove your braces from your teeth. 
  4. Dr. Jewett will then clean the dental cement from your teeth using a special tool. He’ll scrape the cement off and polish your teeth.
  5. Once the glue is removed, it’s time to fit your custom retainer! After removing braces, your teeth are more susceptible to reverting back to their original position, so wearing a retainer is critical for preventing this.  

If you don’t want your beautiful new smile to be temporary, be sure to carefully follow Dr. Jewett’s instructions on proper retainer wear.

Fitting the retainer is the final step! Once your retainer is properly in place, Dr. Jewett will explain how to wear your retainer properly and how to care for it. 

Now, it’s up to you to maintain your new smile and prioritize your oral hygiene!

 

Will removing braces hurt?

You may feel a weird sensation while the last traces of dental cement are being removed, but it should not hurt to have your braces removed! 

 

Getting used to life after braces

You’ve probably been wearing your braces for a while! Life without them will feel a little different at first, but the first thing you’ll notice is your beautifully straight teeth. (And they may feel a bit slimy at first.)

When you eat your first meal without braces, your teeth will feel noticeably lighter! It’s a unique and exciting sensation.

You’ll be able to brush and floss your teeth without archwires in the way, and you can finally brush the entire surface of your teeth!

 

How will my teeth look after removing braces?

How your teeth look once your braces are removed will depend on how good your dental hygiene was while wearing them, and whether you used whitening toothpaste or solutions while your braces were in place. (We advise that you wait until your braces are removed to whiten your teeth!)

Some patients may notice discolorations on their teeth after their braces are removed. Plaque buildup on teeth will change the color of the enamel, which can appear as white spots. 

Don’t worry, though! You can have your teeth whitened once your braces are removed and these spots should disappear easily, in one or two treatments. 

If you’re interested in using any whitening or bleaching agents, we’re proud to offer ZOOM whitening treatments for in-office whitening with Dr. Jewett or whitening kits for an at-home whitening treatment. 

Please let Dr. Jewett know that you’re interested in whitening your teeth, and he’ll advise you on the best time to get started. (We suggest you wait until the newly exposed enamel hardens.) 

Your teeth and gums will be sensitive for a few weeks after braces removal. It’s important not to be in too much of a rush to add crunchy or chewy foods back on the menu. Eating these types of foods straight away after braces could be uncomfortable, as your teeth are tender.  

 

Still have questions about what to expect?

If you still have questions, we have answers for you! Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at any time before, during or after your treatment. We’re here to guide you through your treatment process, from your very first visit, to your last appointment. 

If you’re looking for a top orthodontist in Johnson City, we’d love to meet you! Request a complimentary exam for you or your child today.