The big day is almost here – wow! After months (or even years) of treatment, it’s time to get your braces off, and it couldn’t come soon enough. We can’t wait to share in your smile reveal, but to get you prepared, there are a few things you need to know. Here’s what to expect when you get your braces off at Bisig + Chermak + Rudnicke Orthodontics.
Preparing for Removal
We know that you’ve been keeping your teeth clean the entire time you’ve had braces, but paying special attention to your oral hygiene in the days leading up to removal never hurts. In fact, neglecting good toothbrushing and flossing habits could lead to white spot lesions that appear when we remove your brackets – and no one wants that!
Always remember: preparing for your debonding day doesn’t just start a few days before your braces come off. It begins when we first apply your braces. Your healthy habits will never be more apparent than when we remove your brackets to reveal a bright, happy, stain-free smile!
The Removal Process
When it’s finally time to remove your brackets, it’s normal to feel a little nervous, but we’ve got good news: braces removal is 100% pain-free and typically only takes a little more than an hour! Here is our step-by-step removal process to put your mind at ease.
Step 1: Loosening the Brackets
Dr. Bisig, Dr. Chermak, or Dr. Rudnicke will start by gently loosening the brackets from your teeth using a special tool. You may feel a bit of pressure, but the process is painless.
Step 2: Removing the Wires
Once the brackets are off, we’ll gently remove the wires. Like your brackets, you might feel some light pressure but no pain.
Step 3: Cleaning the Adhesive
After the brackets and wires are gone, Dr. Bisig, Dr. Chermak or Dr. Rudnicke will use a polishing tool to carefully remove any remaining adhesive.
Step 4: Say Cheese!
Once your braces are off, you’ll finally get to feel the smooth surface of your teeth and see your beautiful new smile for the first time!
How Will Your Teeth Feel?
The moment your braces come off, you’ll likely feel surprised by how smooth your teeth feel. After all, you’ve spent a long time with brackets and wires on your teeth, and it can take a little time to get used to the new sensation.
Your teeth might feel slightly tender or sensitive to pressure, especially when eating certain foods. This is completely normal as your teeth adjust to being free of braces. Stick to softer foods for the first day or two if you’re feeling discomfort. Your gums may also feel a little sore, but this will fade quickly.
Biting into foods like apples or crunchy snacks may feel strange at first, but don’t worry! Your teeth will adjust, and that sensitivity will go away in a few days.
It’s important to keep brushing and flossing regularly, even if your teeth feel a little tender. Taking care of your newly straightened smile will help you maintain those great results and ensure your teeth stay in top shape.
Wearing Your Retainer
So now that your braces are off, treatment is over, right? Nope! Active treatment, or the time you have your braces on, is only half the journey toward maintaining a straight smile. Retention is the second half, and it starts on your debonding day.
Wearing your retainer is one of the most important parts of your treatment plan because your teeth will naturally shift back to their original locations without an appliance to keep them in place. This is especially true within the first few months of removal.
Type of Retainers
There are two main types of retainers: removable and fixed. Removable retainers are the most common and are custom-made to fit your teeth. They’re easy to take in and out, especially for eating and brushing. Your orthodontist may recommend wearing your retainer full-time for the first few months after your braces come off and gradually moving to nighttime use. It’s important to follow these instructions closely to maintain your results.
Fixed retainers, on the other hand, are bonded to the back of your teeth, providing constant support. These are a great option if you prefer not to worry about remembering to wear a removable retainer. Regardless of which type you have, cleaning your retainer daily is key. For removable retainers, gently brush them with a toothbrush and avoid using hot water, which can warp the material.
Tips for Wearing Your Retainer
Follow these tips for the most success with your retainer.
Follow Dr. Bisig, Dr. Chermak & Dr. Rudnicke’s Instructions!
Stick to the schedule your orthodontist gives you, whether it’s full-time wear or just at night. Consistency is key to keeping your teeth in place.
Clean Your Retainer Daily
Rinse your retainer every time you remove it, and brush it gently with a soft toothbrush. Avoid using hot water, as it can warp the plastic.
Don’t Skip Wearing It
Skipping days can cause your teeth to shift back to their original positions. Stick to your routine for long-term results.
Avoid Eating or Drinking with Your Retainer
Remove your retainer before eating or drinking anything other than water to prevent damage or staining.
Are You Ready to Smile?
At Bisig + Chermak + Rudnicke Orthodontics, there’s nothing more exciting than a debonding day! While you may be a little nervous, just remember we’re here to help you every step of the journey, and your straight smile is just one more appointment away!
Looking to see what you can expect when your braces come off? Check out our reviews to learn more from happy patients in Winston-Salem, Clemmons, and King!
