Getting your braces removed – what to expect
Posted on 02/16/2026
Especially if your or your child's entire braces journey in Orlando, FL has been with Dr. Taddeo, you know that he's on top of every aspect of the treatment. If you have an issue, he's right there, helping you get over the hurdle and optimizing your care plan in any way possible. However, you may be excited that after 12 or so months of metal braces, it's finally time to get them off and see your or your kid's finished smile. But you may still wonder what to expect during the process.
Contact us today at 407-482-3700 to initiate your Eastwood braces treatment or discuss switching to our practice.
How an Orthodontist Determines the Removal Date
While each treatment for braces in Waterford Lakes begins with an estimated time frame, it's merely an estimate. It's impossible to determine an exact date from the beginning because not everyone responds the same during braces treatment.
As the end of the treatment approaches, Dr. Taddeo will evaluate the teeth carefully and examine their new positioning. Dr. Taddeo will also assess how the upper and lower teeth come together now. Often, X-rays are necessary to determine if the roots are in their proper positions and aligned.
What Happens During Braces Removal
Removing braces is nothing like getting your braces placed. It’s much quicker and not as complicated.
The first step is removing the elastics, if you have them. This process requires a small, specialized orthodontic hook that lifts them off the bracket hooks gently.
The archwires go next, but how an orthodontist removes them depends on the type of braces you have. Using a ligature-removal tool or scaler, the practitioner will lift the elastic ligatures and slide them off the bracket. On the other hand, self-ligating brace removal requires a different type of tool to open the clips or sliding doors.
The wire is then free, and the orthodontist will grip one end of the wire with orthodontic pliers to pull it out. The orthodontist does the same to the other one.
To remove the brackets — the final step of braces removal — the orthodontist uses orthodontic pliers to squeeze each bracket and remove it. In the process, the bonding agent releases.
The Finishing Touches
The orthodontist removes evidence of the braces by using a tool to take off any remaining adhesive. Polishing the teeth further smooths any rough surfaces and rids the teeth of any residual adhesive. Impressions are then taken to create a retainer.
How Removal Feels
You might feel mild pressure as the orthodontist removes the braces. Some patients describe it as a slight pulling sensation. You won’t feel any sharp pain. Overall, it’s a more comfortable process than getting the braces placed.
Braces removal is straightforward but varies slightly based on the type of braces. Fortunately, our East Orlando orthodontics practice prioritizes your comfort and strives to make the experience positive, making the process nothing to stress about.
Looking for an orthodontist to remove your braces or start your treatment? Call Taddeo Orthodontics at 407-482-3700.