Many patients don’t like traditional fixed braces and prefer to have the option to take out the orthodontic appliance from time to time. Therefore, they look for other alternatives and wonder if removable braces satisfy their need. This article will explain how these braces work and talk about their pros and cons compared to the fixed ones. However, In the end, we have a suggestion for you that might suit you even better than any braces. So, keep on reading.
What Are Removable Braces?
Removable braces are plastic trays that sometimes have metal wires, but you shouldn’t mistake them for clear braces. As the name indicates, you can take them out for reasons such as eating. Your doctor will take X-rays, impressions, and scans of the teeth to create customized braces for your needs. You should wear these multiple removable braces and swap to the next one every few weeks. This treatment usually takes 12 to 18 months, and the first trays are obviously different from the last ones as they change the position of your teeth. In this video, Dr. Horiyat explains why Invisalign® is the best kind of removable braces:
What Are Removable Braces Used For?
Removable braces can treat minor problems, such as gaps between teeth and general teeth misalignment. Adults and teens can use removable braces, which are less noticeable and allow proper teeth cleaning. It might take longer for adults to see the result of their treatment. Don’t forget that you have to act responsibly and wear your braces most of the day without losing a tray. Failure to do so might add to the length of your treatment.
How Much Do Removable Braces Cost?
The cost of removable braces dramatically depends on your orthodontic needs and whether you use customized braces. Generally, it is recommended to stay away from direct-to-consumer braces and let your doctor prescribe them according to your needs. Your orthodontist can give an accurate estimate of the cost and the length of your treatment.
Tips For Keeping Removable Braces
Here are a few tips for keeping your braces so you can get the best results:
Keep Them Right into The Place
The most crucial tip for using removable braces is to insert and remove them just as your doctor has instructed during the first session. Don’t pick or flick the braces with your tongue. Never pull them out from the front. Use the clips at the back. You should not close your mouth when it feels like the braces have not fitted properly. However, the new braces might make you lisp for a short time. It will go away when you wear them most of your day. If you keep them in and follow your dentist’s instructions, your brain can adjust to the appliance with regards to talking correctly.
Keep the Container and Mold Safe
You should wear your braces for more than sixteen hours daily to see results. Using them for less than sixteen hours can undo your progress thus far. Generally, you can take your braces out for eating, brushing, or heavy physical activities. When the occasion occurs, you should put them in a small container designed to keep these braces when you take them out. The container will protect your braces from any damage.
Your orthodontist might also give you a mold of the teeth based on which your braces were made. Keep it safe to make other braces should anything happen to the ones you already have. If your braces are lost or damaged, contact your doctor immediately.
Stick to A Daily Oral Routine
You should brush your teeth and clean your braces after every meal. You can carefully brush them with your toothbrush and toothpaste. However, cleaning your braces with a retainer cleaner is recommended once a week. Don’t forget to use a retainer cleaner and not bleach or denture cleaners.
Another part of your routine should be visiting your orthodontist regularly. Tell your doctor if the braces make your teeth hurt or if they are loose. A little discomfort during the first days is normal; you can take ibuprofen to ease the pain. However, you should contact your doctor if the pain lasts more than four to five days.
Are Removable Braces as Good as Fixed Braces?
It is generally claimed that removable braces are as effective as fixed braces. But, to answer this question, you must examine the pros and cons of removable and fixed braces to determine which one is more effective for your case. So, here are the pros and cons of each treatment:
Pros of Removable Braces
- You can take them out for eating and brushing;
- They are clear, so the treatment is less noticeable;
- They might cost less than fixed braces;
- They need fewer orthodontist visits.
Cons of Removable Braces
- They are not for every orthodontic need;
- You might break or lose your braces;
- Direct-to-consumer removable braces might not be enough.
Pros of Fixed Braces
- They are effective for almost every orthodontic need;
- You can’t lose or break them by taking them out;
- You can choose the material your braces are made out of.
Cons of Fixed Braces
- They are usually more expensive;
- They are not aesthetically pleasing;
- You need regular orthodontist visits;
- Brushing your teeth takes more time.
Dr. Horiyat compares Invisalign® as a type of removable braces vs. metal braces as an example of fixed ones. There is a distinct difference:
Are You Looking for an Orthodontist for Removable Braces?
This article explored the hype about removable braces and why many prefer them. If you’re searching for a holistic orthodontist for your treatment, look no further. Aria Dental in Orange County, California, is a holistic and biological dental center that offers many services, including orthodontics and Invisalign®. Contact us today for a consultation so our doctor can examine your oral health and walk you through the procedure.
