How Do I Tell the Orthodontist I Want my Braces Off?

Question

My teeth have been in their final positions for over 3 months. Every time I go for a checkup, the ortho doesn't want to take them off yet. Last time I tried making up an excuse saying I wanted them off. I was told no. I don't want to have them anymore. How do I bring it up so they understand I just don't want do this anymore. I don't want my teeth to move, but isn't that what retainers are for? Why do I have to keep wearing braces if my teeth are done and have been for months?

Lance Timmerman, DMD, MAGD · Answer

If the case is paid in full and you no longer wish to have braces anymore, there should be no reason to continue.  However, what might appear as "done" to you may not be correct.  Ask your orthodontist what else is being accomplished to find out the reluctance to finish.

	It should be noted that it takes months for bone and soft tissues to remodel, so if significant movement was made, it is best to wait a short time to allow for these changes or else the retainers won't be able to keep the teeth in place.

Michael Ayzin, DDS · Answer

Thank you for asking this question. You can discontinue treatrment at any point. Just ask your doctor for it. On the other hand, it might appear that front teeth are ready, but the back teeth are NOT aligned as good as they should be. That condition might create problems down the line. My recommendation is to bring your concerns and ask the treating doctor what is going on and what is his plan of action.All the best to you.

Robert Waxler, DMD, MS · Answer

No orthodontist or dentist can hold a patient hostage.  If you are an adult just insist that they be removed...if the doctor thinks more work needs to be done then you might have to sign a release.  If you are a child you have to have a parent request that the braces be removed....again the doctor has to do it if requested.

	Having said that, many of the things that an orthodontist does at the end to get the best possible result are not obvious to the patient.  As long as the doctor is not charging you per month (most don't) then the doctor has no incentive to drag out treatment unless there is a good reason.

How Do I Tell the Orthodontist I Want my Braces Off?

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How Do I Tell the Orthodontist I Want my Braces Off?

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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.