Should I take off my braces when sleeping?

Generally speaking, it is not recommended to remove your dental appliance while sleeping. The detailed explanation is as follows:

If you have a traditional fixed orthodontic appliance—consisting of brackets and wires—it cannot be removed during sleep. This type of appliance is bonded to the teeth with adhesive and can only be taken off by a dentist through professional procedures. Wearing a fixed appliance during sleep usually does not significantly affect rest, and allows continuous corrective forces to be applied to the teeth. However, maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial to prevent food debris from accumulating around the appliance, which could otherwise lead to tooth decay or periodontal disease. For clear aligners, it's also necessary to wear them for a sufficient amount of time each day—typically 20 to 22 hours—to achieve effective orthodontic results. Wearing the aligners during sleep helps ensure adequate daily wear time and provides consistent gentle pressure to facilitate tooth movement.

If you have any questions about wearing your appliance, consult your dentist promptly. They can provide personalized, professional advice based on your specific condition to ensure successful orthodontic treatment and maintain optimal oral health.