Removable Braces
As the name suggests, you can remove the orthodontic appliance while eating and put it back in its place afterwards. Therefore, the effectiveness of removable orthodontics is entirely dependent on the patient’s cooperation. This appliance is typically used for jaw and minor teeth corrections. The removable orthodontic appliance can be used for just the upper jaw or both jaws. It consists of a plastic plate with wires and moves the teeth gradually by applying mild pressure.
Are removable braces suitable for me?
In your first appointment, your orthodontist will explain all the options and will determine whether removable braces are appropriate to fix your teeth and jaw. This method, which is usually used to adjust the upper jaw, is suitable for all ages. However, at an earlier age (under 12 years old) that the growth of the jaw isn’t yet completed, it can be used to fix jaw abnormalities. Some of the jaw abnormalities can be easily treated at a lower cost just by orthodontics and without surgery. If the patient is older, jaw surgery will be also required along with orthodontics to correct jaw abnormalities.
Benefits of removable braces
Removable braces facilitate cleaning your teeth. Also, it will improve your general oral hygiene, resulting in lower risk of future gum diseases. Unlike fixed braces, removable braces can be removed while brushing or flossing teeth and for sports if necessary.
Length of treatment
In general, the length of treatment with removable braces is shorter than fixed braces. Typically, it takes 6 months to achieve any results. In your first appointment, the orthodontist will determine the exact time considering the complexities of the treatment.
In some cases, after your fixed brace treatment is completed and braces are removed, removable orthodontics is required to keep the teeth in their new positions. Initially, you may need to use removable braces full-time. However, as your teeth stabilize in their new positions, less time is needed.
Treatment experience
At first you may feel a little discomfort after the initial adjustments are made and the retainers are fixed in their places. This amount of discomfort is common and is short-lived. Mild painkillers can help reduce the discomfort.
Achieving the best results with removable braces
Keeping appointments with your orthodontist, following the advice provided to you in each session and at last taking special care of your oral hygiene during your treatment will all help achieve the best results.
How to look after your removable braces
Removable braces are very delicate and to prevent damage it is advised:
- While you are wearing them avoid hard, sticky and sweet food and drinks.
- Don’t wash the braces in boiling or hot water because it will melt its plastic.
- Remove the braces for swimming.
- If it was difficult to speak during the first few days, try to fix the problem only with practice. For instance, sing or read a text with loud voice. The speech will get back to normal after two or three days.
- Clean your braces with a washing solvent once a week.
The oral hygiene is very important while wearing braces, ensuring the health of your gums during treatment. The hygiene of your braces is also essential. You need to wash your teeth with toothbrush and toothpaste at least twice a day.
