All about orthodontics: removable orthodontic appliances

We are referring to aligners or other appliances that are removable, not fixed to the teeth like braces. So really, there is no such thing as “removable braces,” the correct name is removable orthodontic appliances.

Patients can remove these aligners as needed, unlike the types of braces that are fixed. Although ceramic braces and lingual braces offer reduced visibility, they don't necessarily promote the ease of aligners.

Aligners are the reigning champion when it comes to accessible orthodontic treatment, not just because they're removable.

• Unlike traditional metal braces, removable orthodontic appliances can improve your oral health, since you remove them to eat.
• The rapid but gentle transformation and tooth movement is done discreetly.
• Aligners are virtually invisible and constantly apply gentle pressure but with less discomfort on average to brackets and wires.

Essentially, you can straighten your teeth and have them move into the correct positions without losing your freedom, comfort or hygiene standards.

Components of removable orthodontic appliances

There are essentially two different types of orthodontic appliances:

Active, which use springs and screws to produce movement: these devices contain elements that exert pressure so that the pieces move. 

Passive, such as retainers and space maintainers. They are used to maintain the desired position achieved, so they don’t become misaligned at the end of treatment. Also known as removable orthodontic retainers, they do not perform any action; they keep the teeth in position long-term.

Functions of removable orthodontic appliances

Although the effectiveness of fixed and removable appliances is the same, these devices differ in some ways. Let’s see what the biggest differences are between fixed and removable orthodontic appliances:

• Aesthetics: Removable orthodontic appliances are much more discreet than fixed metal appliances, and can go unnoticed when using invisible aligners.
• Comfort: Clear, removable aligners are much more practical and comfortable than braces or other types of fixed treatments. Patients have no restrictions when it comes to eating and can eat hard and coloured foods (tea, coffee, wine, curry...), and they can simply bite into a piece of fruit.
• Hygiene: Aligners allow for better oral hygiene, as the toothbrush is not restricted and can easily access all areas of the mouth. The same goes for dental floss, which is recommended daily. Wearing fixed appliances means specialist equipment; interdental brushes need to be used to clean the areas between the appliance and the teeth. 
• The aligners can be removed to clean your teeth, do not create a bad smell, and, in turn, can be cleaned with cold water and neutral soap to guarantee fresh breath, unlike braces that could lead to a buildup of bacterial plaque and tartar.
• Follow-ups: Fixed appliances require regular follow-ups with the orthodontist to adjust them, which isn't the case with invisible aligners. You receive the full series of aligners when you start your treatment with Impress, ready for when they need to be changed (typically every week or two). 

Orthodontic appliances for adults

Adults tend to prefer removable braces as invisible aligners give you more freedom and are more aesthetically pleasing.

Although it’s possible to remove the aligners during an important event, such as a wedding, our specialists recommend wearing them at least 22 hours a day to ensure that the treatment is carried out correctly and within the expected time.

Who can wear removable orthodontic aligners?

The vast majority of patients who need orthodontic treatment can wear removable appliances. This type of orthodontics is effective in many problems of dental origin and can treat the simplest to the most complex cases.

The vast majority of patients who need to align their teeth can opt for these devices due to the benefits. Let's take a look at some of the advantages:

Advantages of removable orthodontic appliances

1. They can be removed for social occasions, meals and sensitive situations
2. You can maintain a high standard of oral hygiene as it's removable, allowing you to brush your teeth thoroughly
3. It's a simple treatment, with a dental practitioner able to take scans and help you start treatment within weeks
4. It requires a short appointment to check fitting, not the traditional lengthy process that traditional braces take

What is a removable orthodontic appliances used for? Overbite, gaps, and more

Removable orthodontic appliances are used to treat many dental and malocclusion problems. Some of the problems that can be treated with removable braces or other orthodontic appliances are overbite, gaps, teeth crowding due to lack of space, open occlusion, overjet, deep malocclusion, or posterior crossbite.

Disadvantages of removable orthodontic appliances

Like everything, clear removable braces and other orthodontic appliances have some disadvantages too. Let's take a look at the cons:

1. As the name implies, aligners, or clear removable braces, can be easily removed, which means it’s possible to lose them or be tempted to go a day without them.
2. Due to the range of movement needed in some more complex cases, you need to have an orthodontic evaluation with the necessary X-ray and 3d scan to assess the level of complexity involved in moving your teeth.
3. Removable devices, just like braces, can be uncomfortable in the first few days as you feel the pressure on your teeth. 

The cost of removable braces and other orthodontic appliances in the UK

The cost of removable braces and other orthodontic appliances in the UK varies depending on many factors such as:

• the price established by the professional
• the prestige of the clinic
• the duration of the treatment
• the complexity of the case

On average, the price of removable orthodontics is typically between £1,850 for the simplest and fastest cases and £5,500 for the most complex cases and, therefore, will require more months of treatment.

Removable orthodontics from Impress

Prices for Impress removable orthodontic treatments are competitive, transparent and upfront–no surprises. All aligners, accessories, face-to-face and online visits are included in the total price of the treatment. In addition, we offer financing plans so that you can comfortably pay for your treatment in instalments.

Ready to get started?

You can contact us via WhatsApp, by phone at +44 20 3808 1072, or by filling out our online form to directly schedule an appointment.

Discover more about your personalised treatment plan at your initial consultation with Impress. Find your nearest Impress clinic!