12 Things You Will Go Through After Getting Braces Off
When it comes to wearing braces, one thing remains certain – it is a process. Braces are a great and effective orthodontic tool which mostly helps with teeth and jaw alignment. But, even so, many adult patients wear their braces for no less than two years. On the other hand, children and teenagers might even spend up to 4 years wearing them.
Given the time braces require to be effective, many patients have learned to live with braces daily. However, once they come off, both adults and children will definitely need some time to adjust to the new situation.
If you are, too, looking forward to taking your braces off, here are 12 things you can expect in return
1. Teeth Discoloration
Due to wearing appliances for years, your teeth might change in color. Usually, you will notice yellow tartar immediately after taking off the braces. However, this is an easily solved issue. Your dentist can help you eliminate white spots on the teeth as well as excessive teeth calcification. And yes, a bit of calcification formation is humane.
2. Straight Teeth
One of the main purposes of wearing braces in the first place is straightening the teeth. As soon as your braces come off, you will notice a significant difference in your teeth. This time around, they will be more aligned and properly situated in the jaw. With that come a greater self-confidence and a smile that can light up a room. Finally, your new, beautiful smile will surely earn you a few compliments as well.
3. Calluses
Unfortunately, with taking your braces off, you might discover plenty of calluses on the oral cavity. Usually, when it comes to metal braces, calluses appear on the inside of your lips or cheeks. Basically, calluses occur on any gentler skin surface in the mouth. Calluses can develop rapidly and occur immediately after taking off the braces. However, there is no need to be alarmed, as these will fade in due time.
4. Brushing Teeth
Without braces, not even brushing teeth is the same anymore. While earlier you had to keep your braces and teeth clean, now you will have one worry less. Now that food isn’t stuck in your braces, brushing your teeth almost seems an enjoyable chore. Plus, as you can now eat anything you please. Furthermore, you will steer clear from braces-friendly toothpaste and solutions, and save a few dollars while at it.
5. Flossing Teeth
At the same time, Flossing with braces seemed almost impossible, but now it kind of…feels good, right? Flossing will be far easier now. You don’t need anymore the special orthodontic flossers. Still, remember that you need to brush and floss your teeth multiple times a day.
6. Chewing Food
Wearing braces for years can usually lead to almost forgetting what eating without them looked like. Well, for a couple of days you might feel extremely awkward eating without them. For the first time in years, you will be able to take full bites and avoid food getting stuck in your braces. At the same time, you will be free of brackets, which means no additional discomfort either. Ultimately, some of your favorite snacks, such as gummy bears and chewing gums, could also make a comeback.
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7. Sensitive Teeth
Another experience you will probably go through when taking your braces off are tender teeth. In fact, with years of protecting your teeth by wearing braces, your teeth have not been exposed to outer influences as much. Also, during the removal process, your dentist will have to remove the glue stuck on the teeth as well. Now, this may cause some discomfort and contribute to your teeth being more sensitive. Wait at least a month for the discomfort to improve. However, you can always use toothpaste which will help your teeth feel normal again. Also, be wary of consuming foods and beverages which are either too hot or too cold.
8. Dentist and Orthodontist Appointments
Your orthodontic treatment may already be long forgotten, but your dentist appointments are not. Your oral health is important. Your dentist will check for any tooth decay. Keep in mind that as soon as you take your braces off, you will need to wear retainers. Retainers help hold the teeth in line, without having to wear braces at all. Some doctors recommend wearing retainers for years. In case you skip wearing retainers for a few nights, you might experience jaw tightness and teeth discomfort.
9. Shift in Alignment
Now that your braces are removed, no wires and brackets support the teeth, so they might start moving around. However, it is also good to know that this is completely normal and everyone experiences it. The teeth need to find a way to ‘live’ without the braces supporting them, thus finding their proper space. In time, you will notice all cracking and shifting has stopped, which means the teeth have finally settled.
10. Smile
Braces can transform smiles, and that is one of the biggest reasons people decide on wearing them. Still, what may surprise you is how much more you are willing to smile now. In fact, you will be more than glad to show off your new teeth and smile, feeling confident in yourself as a result. Truth be told, it doesn’t get any better than that.
11. Extra Treatments
Despite taking your braces off, you might still need to undergo a few other treatments. In fact, in some cases, patients often have to wear other orthodontist tools, similar to braces. Such include spacers, partial braces, and more. The easiest way out of this would be to wear retainers alone, but it is also good to know that help is out there, if your teeth ever need it.
12. Teeth Whitening
It is natural, once your teeth are nice and beautiful to get them whitened. Your Best orthodontist near me or dentist can advise on correct way to whiten your teeth. Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations. Now, you can truly enjoy your smile. Show off to the world this beautiful smile.
