Some frequently asked questions about removable braces
What are removable braces?
Removable braces are orthodontic appliances, which move the teeth selectively to correct your bite. They are not usually designed to straighten your teeth. Your bite is the way your top and bottom teeth meet.
Do I still need to see my dentist when I am having treatment by my orthodontist?
Yes. Your orthodontist is only responsible for your orthodontic treatment and your general dental health still needs to be checked by your own general dentist on a regular basis.
Why do I need braces?
You need braces because your bite needs correcting. This may be because your upper and lower jaws are not growing at equal speeds or displacement of a tooth or some teeth have altered your bite from its normal position.
I want my teeth straightened but I don’t care about my bite?
Your bite is the foundation of your mouth. If your bite is wrong, the growth of your jaws may become affected and cause asymmetry in your face.
Can I choose the type of brace I need to wear?
No! There is usually one brace that fixes your problem the best and your orthodontist will advise you which is best for you.
OK then, I want to get braces but are they sore?
When we fit your brace, it feels a bit like wearing a gum shield, it might be a bit uncomfortable for the first few days, perhaps one tooth more than another depending on it’s function. Persevere, you are not used to having something in your mouth, but you do get used to it and if it is worn full time, soon you won’t really notice it.
When can I take it out?
You take your brace out for brushing, contact sports and swimming. Some patients can take out their brace for eating, but your orthodontist will tell you if you can take your brace out or if you need to keep it in for eating.
Should I keep my brace in when I’m sleeping?
Absolutely! This is a 24-hours brace. If you do not wear your brace full time it won’t work!
How do I make sure I don’t lose my brace?
You need to wear your brace all the time apart from the times mentioned above. You need a hard box, or buy a removable brace box from the reception, to keep your braces in when it is taken out. Remember, if your brace is always in your mouth or kept in the box when you need to take it out, you are unlikely to lose it. If you lose your removable brace or break it beyond repair, you will be without it for a number of weeks until it is either repaired or replaced. In that time, you can lose a considerable amount of correction in your teeth that you have previously achieved. If your brace needs to be replaced it will need to be paid for up front and then you will need to fill in a form to see if the NHS are willing to reimburse you, they don’t always do this. Ask the practice reception about the cost of a new brace.
How do I clean my brace?
Brush your brace with a toothbrush and water every time you brush your teeth. Don’t not use toothpaste on your brace. If you are out of home and do not have access to a toothbrush, simply take out your brace and rinse your mouth and brace with water after eating. There is also a special cleaner called “Retainer Brite” for cleaning removable braces. Ask the practice receptionist about “Retainer Brite”
Can I use my normal toothbrush or should I use an electric toothbrush?
Yes, your normal toothbrush will be fine but do not use toothpaste on your brace as it is quite abrasive and roughen the surface making it a perfect breeding ground for bacteria.
Does the brace affect my speech?
It usually does for the first day or two, you might get a lisp. The speech problem goes away after a day or two if the brace is worn full time.
I play a woodwind/brass instrument. Is it going to affect it?
Very rarely. Initially you may find it tricky to get the perfect seal with your lips and it might be difficult to play some of the notes, but if you do enough practice, you won’t have any problems after a short while.
What are the foods I should avoid?
You should avoid hard, chewy and sugery foods. Hard and chewy foods can break you braces and sugery foods can cause damage to your teeth. Use your common sense! Chewing into a lollipop for example can break your brace. You should also avoid acidic drinks with your brace in. Fizzy juices, sugery juices, citrus fruit juices and flavoured waters are all acidic and can erode your teeth rapidly if consumed excessively.
What if my brace breaks away?
Contact the practise and see if you can get an extra appointment to have it fixed. The extra appointments are very limited and there is no guarantee that you can get one. If your brace is causing a lot of discomfort because of the breakage, stop wearing it, but arrange an extra appointment as soon as possible.
My brace is very loose and doesn’t stay in my mouth or falls out very easily?
Wearing a loose brace at night is very dangerous and can block your airway when you are sleeping. You must not wear the brace at night and contact your orthodontist to make an extra appointment to have a tightened.
Do I need to have my braces adjusted once they are fitted?
Yes. Your braces need to be adjusted once every 4-10 weeks. You need to arrange a new appointment every time you see us.
What happens if I miss my follow up appointments?
If you have braces fitted, the brace is adjusted to do certain amount of movement to your teeth over a certain period of time. If you miss your appointment, the movement can exceed its required amount and either cause damage to your teeth or delay your treatment. You are responsible for keeping your appointments. Missed appointments may incur a charge and if this happens frequently we may discontinue your treatment, close your case and discharge you!
If you have a screw in your brace and you have been told to turn it, you should stop turning it if you miss your appointment until you can arrange a new one to be seen.
How long do I need to wear my braces?
Ask your orthodontist as it varies. It is not always possible to give you an exact time as the speed of tooth movement varies from individual to individual. Breakages and part-time wear prolong your treatment.
What number do I need to call in emergencies or to discuss appointments?
The telephone number you need to call is: 01896 759331