Dr. Lindy Beverly

The first steps will be similar to your normal monthly visit. The rubber bands or wire that hold the arch wire in place will be removed. The arch wire is the long wire that wraps your teeth and is attached to the brackets. After the bands are removed the arch wire is also taken off. Your dentist will now use a special tool that will break the bond between the bracket and the tooth. They are able to do this without damaging your teeth. This should be done only by your dentist and never by you. After the brackets are removed, there will be residue of the bonding agent. They will then smooth this off and polish your teeth.

What will it feel like when I get my braces off?

This is a big concern of most, if not all patients. Although some may experience some discomfort most feel relief. The only pain may come while your dentist removes the bonding agent.

Will I need a retainer?

Almost all patients will need some type of retainer. This helps keep the teeth from shifting. Most shifting will happen in the first six months after getting the braces off.If the retainers are not worn properly the braces may need to be reapplied.

There are two common type of retainers, the bonded retainer and the Hawley retainer.

The bonded retainer is used for the bottom teeth when the dentist feel like there may be shifting after the braces are off. It is permanently placed, usually, on the back of the front bottom teeth. When having a bonded retainer you will need to floss like you did when your braces were on. Using a floss threader can make this easier. The bonded retainer will need special care when eating. It can be broken off just like you could break a bracket of your braces off. Be sure to let your dentist know if the retainer is broken.

The Hawley retainer is a removable retainer that is made for the top set of teeth. The dentist will take an impression of your teeth to make a mold for this type of retainer. The biggest advantage of wearing the Hawley retainer is that you can remove it to eat or when brushing your teeth. This biggest disadvantage is that many patients forget to wear it. This can cause your alignment to shift and may require that your braces be put back on your teeth. The other disadvantage is that it is easy to loose. Never wrap it up in a napkin. Many retainers are accidentally thrown away. Start of habit of putting your retainer in a case. You can get cases at most drug stores, from your dentist or custom cases online.

Although there may be more steps after getting your braces off you are close to the results of having a beautiful smile

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