Pros and cons of removing braces at home?

Question

ve had my braces on for 5 years and have not seen an orthodontist in 4 of those years due to moving out of state and leaving the person who was paying for them. Anyways, I will probably not have the money to finish the process any time soon. I want to take them off myself. What are the cons to doing this? Or is there a place to go that I can get a cheaper rate to finish the process?

Navid Zamani, DMD · Answer

Removing your own braces can potentially create some damage to your natural teeth. You should visit with an experience provider and discuss your needs. Removal of the braces if not very expensive, however it save you a lot in the long run if done properly. There may be some other options for you to continue with the current brackets and your new provider can discuss that with you further.All the best.

Michael Ayzin, DDS · Answer

I can not recommend to do self dentistry, because mostly likely there will be some residue left even if you will manage to remove actual braces. That residue can and will create a rough surface, which in turn can create cavities. Find a local dentist, who can remove them safely.

Patrick M. Ohlenforst, DDS, MS · Answer

WOW, as an orthodontist myself, I can think of NO pros and LOTS of cons!Believe it or not, your situation is a little unusual, but not that unheard of.  Life happens!   Relationships change. I'm assuming if you haven't seen an orthodontist in 4 years, you also haven't had a dental checkup in 4 years also.  First, I would suggest you find a dentist nearby and set up an appointment for a checkup and cleaning.  When you go for your appointment, swallow your pride and lay your cards on the table and tell them that you haven't had a check up or an orthodontic appointment in four years.  They may be a little surprised, but will quickly get over it and help you figure out what to do next. If you take your braces off yourself, the best thing that will happen is that the braces will be off but you will still have some of the bonding adhesive on your teeth. That won't look good. The worst that can happen is that you may damage your teeth in either small ways or significant ways. Think breaking off large chunks of enamel!  Then you'll be even more embarrassed when you go to a dentist to have your teeth repaired. Plus the cost could be significant. Your dentist may recommend that an orthodontist take the braces off instead of them because they do not want to accept the liability of taking the braces off since they don't usually do that type of thing. Sure, an orthodontist is probably going to charge you several hundred dollars to remove the brackets but in the long run it will be money well spent. You will be able to put this phase of your life behind you and move on. Maybe later on, you will be in a position where you can get braces put back and finish the job.Good luck! P.S. DON'T TAKE YOUR BRACES OFF YOURSELF!!!

Pros and cons of removing braces at home?

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Pros and cons of removing braces at home?

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Everything you need to know about Braces

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.