These braces are often used as an early treatment option (before all the baby teeth have fallen out) or in addition to fixed braces to make the treatment easier. They have metal clips to hold the brace over the teeth and use springs or expanding screws to move the teeth into the new position.

They often feel bulky for a few days and can make speaking a little difficult initially. They are usually worn all the time (except sports and eating) so the initial difficulties wear off quite quickly.

Often the brace will be just over the upper teeth. There is a special type of removable brace called a functional brace which is often an upper and lower brace which ‘fit’ together.