Retainers and stable resultsQuestion after the braces come off

How are braces taken off? Is there a difference in how different types of braces are removed?

Answered byDr Ivelina Ivanova-Koycheva, Orthodontist (MSc)Master's degrees in orthodontics in Rome and in aligner treatment in Turin, international lecturerPublished on 12 November 2026

Braces are removed at the end of orthodontic treatment with special pliers designed for the purpose. The pliers squeeze the bracket until the bond between the bracket and the adhesive breaks, and once the bracket is off, the adhesive stays on the enamel. It acts as a protective cushion that softens the force of removal.

Metal braces are removed together with the archwire and elastic ties (if there are any), whereas aesthetic braces are removed one at a time, without the archwire. The procedure takes 1 minute.

This answer is for general information. Your own case needs an examination by an orthodontist.