Everything you need to know about removable braces
Removable braces have an acrylic base and stainless steel components to hold the appliance firmly onto the teeth. Movement of teeth is achieved by the activation of the stainless steel springs or the rotation of a screw on the palate of the appliance. A removable brace simply clicks onto the teeth and can be easily fitted or removed.
Will it be painful?
You will likely be sore for 3 to 5 days after each time the brace is adjusted. If necessary, painkillers such as those you would take for a headache will help, though you should make sure to read the instructions on the packet. If there is an obvious area of soreness as a result of the brace rubbing against your skin, give your orthodontist a call and make an appointment as soon as possible. If you can, try to keep wearing the brace until we can see you. It will also help us to see exactly which part of the brace is causing the problem.
How else might it affect me?
Your speech may be different until you get used to wearing the brace. Practice speaking with the brace in place by reading out loud by yourself. This will help your speech return to normal within a few days. To begin with you may also find yourself swallowing a lot as a result of your mouth watering more. This is quite normal and will pass.
Can I eat normally?
You should be able to eat normally after your brace is fitted, and it is important you keep the brace in whilst doing so, unless your orthodontist tells you otherwise. Although it might be difficult at first, eating with the brace will become easier the more you do it. After each meal, remove the brace and rinse your mouth thoroughly, brushing the brace with your toothbrush to remove all debris.
To make sure your treatment works well and in the shortest possible time, it is important you take care of your teeth and brace. In order to avoid damage to both, you should try to avoid the following:
- Toffee, boiled sweets, chewing gum, bubble gum and chews
- Fizzy drinks, including diet drinks and excessive amounts of fruit juice
- Hard foods such as crunchy apples, crusty bread rolls, nuts etc. might damage the brace
- Hard foods can be eaten with care, if you cut them up small before chewing them
What about tooth brushing?
After your brace is fitted, it is important you brush twice a day and use fluoride toothpaste. If possible, carry a toothbrush with you for use after lunch. A daily fluoride mouth rinse should also be used at a separate time to brushing during the day. Failure to keep your teeth and brace clean will lead to suspension of treatment by your orthodontist so as to avoid permanent damage.
How long will treatment take?
Treatment usually takes 6 to 12 months, but will vary according to how severe your case is. Failed or cancelled appointments and repeated breakages will increase treatment times.
Hopefully we’ve answered some of your frequently asked questions about removable braces. For more information on our brace options be sure to get in touch with Northenden House on 0161 884 1481.
- Mohammad Malik
