The end is in sight! You are just about to have your braces removed, and you can already taste the sweet freedom of your orthodontic victory over brackets and wires. But, don’t say a bittersweet goodbye to your orthodontist just yet, you will likely be visiting quite frequently after your braces have been removed.
While your braces were on, you probably got used to seeing your orthodontic family approximately every 6-8 weeks. So, although you’re very excited to get them off, you may be a little worried about how to maintain your brightest, whitest and healthiest smile.
Now That Your Braces Are Off, It’s Time for Retainers
Your teeth are now the straight, perfect pearly whites you’ve always imagined, and your orthodontist is the person who’s going to give you the tools to help you keep them that way. At the appointment when you have your braces removed, your orthodontist will provide a set of retainers along with instructions for their proper use.
Why Retainers Are Important:
- Prevent teeth from shifting back to their original position.
- Maintain alignment achieved during orthodontic treatment.
If you experience any issues with your retainers, such as extreme discomfort or if they get eaten by the dog, your orthodontist will be happy to welcome you back in for a consultation and re-fitting.
Let’s Keep Your Teeth Straight and Clean
Even patients with the best oral hygiene routine should visit their dentist after braces removal. Your dentist will:
- Check for any cavities or oral health issues that may have developed while your braces were on.
- Perform a thorough cleaning to remove any plaque build-up.
Considering teeth whitening? This is a fine option for many patients, but we recommend you hold off for a month or two after removal because your teeth may be sensitive from being exposed to the elements after being covered by braces for so long.
Ready to Maintain Your Perfect Smile?
Whether you’re looking forward to getting your braces off or you’re wondering if you need to get them on to have your best-possible smile, contact Wonder West Orthodontics to learn more from professionals who truly care about making you smile.