Removable orthodontic appliances: get to know

Orthodontics using fixed devices is one of the most commonly known options for aligning teeth. However, there are now many different types of orthodontic appliances, with removable orthodontic appliances continuing to be the choice of preference for people with active lifestyles.

What are removable orthodontic appliances?

When we talk about removable orthodontics, 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, like when eating and brushing their teeth. This system offers more freedom, more comfort and better hygiene.

Types of removable appliances

1. Fixed appliances
2. Combination devices, with fixed and removable components
3. Myofunctional appliances

Components of removable orthodontic appliances

Just as effective as traditional braces, but a quicker process compared to having your brace fitted. Removable orthodontics continues to gain popularity every day. There are essentially two types of removable 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 at the end of treatment to maintain the movements made and so that the teeth don’t become misaligned again. Also known as removable orthodontic retainers, they do not perform any action; they only keep the teeth in position.

Who can wear this type of orthodontic appliance?

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

Removable orthodontic appliances for kids

Removable braces and other orthodontic appliances are also a great option to fix overbite and other dental problems for kids and teens. The only thing to consider is that they’ll have to be taught to wear the appliance correctly for as long as possible and to be taught to take them off only at mealtimes and when brushing their teeth.

Removable braces and other orthodontic appliances for adults

Adults tend to prefer removable braces or other orthodontic appliances, 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.

What problems can removable orthodontic appliances treat? 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 orthodontics appliances are overbite, gaps, teeth crowding due to lack of space, open occlusion, overjet, deep malocclusion, or posterior crossbite.

In addition to things like overbite and gaps, removable braces or other orthodontic appliances can also treat many other pathologies and diseases. The first time you visit your orthodontist, they will tell you if your case can be treated with removable appliances.

What are the 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. 

Differences between removable and fixed orthodontics

Although the effectiveness of fixed and removable appliances is the same, helping you to straighten your teeth, 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. Removable orthodontic aligners are transparent and conform to the anatomy of the teeth, so you can smile with total confidence without almost anyone noticing that you're wearing them.
• 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 colored foods (tea, coffee, wine, curry...) or simply bite into a piece of fruit without the risk of breaking the device or staining it. It is also possible to remove them easily.
• 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. When wearing fixed appliances, 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 is not 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). 
• In addition, in certain cases, such as with Impress removable orthodontics, it is possible to monitor your treatment remotely, using our app, which can save busy people precious time on appointments. 

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 and the complexity of the case, among others. However, the price of removable orthodontics is usually 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.

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.

Impress removable orthodontics: the invisible orthodontics revolution

At Impress, we are specialists in treatments with removable orthodontic appliances. We offer quality, affordable, comfortable and hygienic treatment to align your teeth.

Our team of orthodontists will be in charge of evaluating your case and indicating which type of treatment is best suited to you. Do you want to know more about our removable invisible orthodontic treatments? 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!