Removable Appliances

Removable appliances are frequently used in the early stages of a course of orthodontic treatment prior to fixed appliance treatment. Removable appliances are made of plastic with metal wires and are designed to move teeth slowly. They are worn 24 hours a day and should only be removed for cleaning. Ideally the appliance should be removed after eating and cleaned with a toothbrush and rinsed under cold running water. The appliance should be removed before cleaning your teeth. Some patients choose to remove their appliances for contact sports, swimming and wind instrument playing. Whenever the appliance is removed ensure it is placed in a box, preferably with you name and address marked clearly on the outside. Appliance boxes are available for sale at the practice. With removable appliances expect the appliance to be tight but this should resolve within 48 hours. If necessary a mild painkiller should relieve initial problems. Expect space initially under the palate; excessive saliva in your mouth and difficulties swallowing — these problems will resolve quickly with wear. You should also expect initial eating difficulties and speaking difficulties. Speech returns to normal quickly providing the appliance is worn as instructed. If your brace causes an obvious area of soreness, ring for an appointment as soon as is reasonably possible.

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 place will become easier with time. After each meal remove your brace and rinse it thoroughly.

What about tooth brushing?
It is important you brush thoroughly twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste. If possible carry a brush with you for use after lunch. Take the brace out to clean your teethand gently brush your brace, taking care not to damage the wires, before replacing it.
Failure to keep your teeth and brace clean and a sugary diet can lead to permanent damage of the enamel surface of your teeth.
 
Can I remove the brace?
We will tell you when you should remove your brace. Do not repeatedly click the brace in and out with your tongue as this will loosen or break the wires and increase the length of time the treatment will take.

How long will treatment take?
It usually takes 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 and may lead to the treatment being discontinued.

How often will I need an appointment?
You will need regular appointments for the braces to be adjusted. Adjustments are usually made every 6 to 8 weeks.

Do I still need to see my regular dentist ?
You must continue to have regular check-ups with your dentist during orthodontic treatment so that your teeth can be checked for decay or other problems.

What do I do if I play contact sports?
You should wear a gum shield instead of your removable appliance when you play contact sports. You will be advised about this. When it is not in your mouth store the brace in a protective box.

Dr Richard Skeggs BDS, MFDS RCS, MClinDent, MOrth RCS Specialist in Orthondontics
at the Nottingham Orthodontic Centre