Removable Dental Braces
Now that you have a removable dental brace you may have some questions you would like answered first.
Can I eat normally?
Yes you should be able to eat normally. It is important you keep the brace in whilst eating unless you are otherwise instructed.
Although it may be difficult at first, eating with the brace in will become easier with time. After each meal remove the brace and rinse it thoroughly. For your orthodontics to work well 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 :
- Avoid eating toffees, boiled sweets, sugared chewing gum, chocolate bars, etc.
- Avoid fizzy drinks (including diet drinks) and excessive amounts of fruit juice.
- Take care eating hard foods which might damage the brace such as crunchy apples, crusty bread, etc.
Will it be Sore or Painful?
It is likely to be sore for about 3-5 days each time the brace is adjusted. If necessary, painkillers such as the ones you would normally take for a headache may help (please read the instructions on the packet). Â If the brace rubs your lips or cheeks, you will be given some wax to help with this.
How else might it affect me?
Your speech will be different. Practice speaking with the brace in place e.g. read out aloud at home on your own, and in this way your speech will return to normal within a couple of days. You may also find yourself swallowing a lot to begin with. This is quite normal and will quickly pass.
What about the effect on toothbushing?
It is important you brush well three times per day and use a fluoride toothpaste. If possible carry a brush with you for use after lunch. Take the brace out to clean your teeth. You should also gently brush the brace, taking care not to damage the wires. A daily fluoride mouthrinse should also be used last thing at night, after toothbrushing. Failure to keep your teeth and brace clean will lead to permanent scarring of your teeth.
Can I remove the brace?
Yes, but you should only remove it for cleaning. Do not repeatedly click the brace in and out with your tongue as this will break the wires and increase the length of time the treatment will take.
How long will treatment take?
It usually takes between 6 -24 months but will vary according to how severe your case is. Failed and cancelled appointments, or repeated breakages of the brace will increase the length of time the treatment will take.
How often will I need an appointment?
You will need regular appointments during treatment for the brace to be adjusted.
Do I still need to see my regular dentist?
Yes. It will be important you still have check-ups with your dentist throughout orthodontic treatment so that your teeth can be checked for decay.
What do I do if I play contact sports?
It is recommended you wear a gumshield. This will also be the case if you enjoy riding a bicycle, roller-skating, or skateboarding. You will be advised about this.
What if I play a musical instrument?
If you play a wind instrument, particularly the flute or a brass instrument, then a fixed brace may make it more difficult. You will need to discuss this with your music teacher.
What if my brace breaks during treatment?
You will need to contact the practice for an emergency appointment for the brace to be repaired. Repeated breakages will slow down the treatment and increase the overall treatment time. As a rule every time the brace is broken 1 – 2 months is added onto the normal treatment time of 6 – 24 months. If you repeatedly break the brace, treatment may be stopped, leaving your teeth in a worse position that when you started.
If you have any further questions that you feel you would like to ask, then please write them down and bring them with you to your next appointment. It is important that you fully understand what is involved in having orthodontic treatment before you decide to go ahead
