Life After Braces: Retainers and Post-Orthodontic Care

After months or even years of adjusting and waiting, you’ve finally had your braces removed, revealing a straight and beautiful smile. However, the journey to maintaining that newly aligned smile is just beginning. The post-braces phase is crucial, and proper care is essential to ensure your teeth don’t revert to their old positions. Here’s a guide to life after braces, emphasizing the importance of retainers and post-orthodontic care.

The Role of Retainers

Once braces are removed, teeth have a natural tendency to shift back to their original positions. Retainers are orthodontic devices designed to retain the position of your teeth, ensuring all the time and effort put into braces isn’t wasted.

Types of Retainers:

Hawley Retainers: Made of metal and acrylic, these retainers are durable and can be adjusted if needed.
Clear Retainers: Made of clear plastic, they are less noticeable but might need replacement if they wear out.
Fixed Retainers: A thin wire bonded to the back of the teeth, it remains in place without you having to worry about putting it on or taking it off.

Taking Care of Your Retainers

Wear Them as Instructed: Initially, you might be asked to wear your retainer full-time, only removing them for meals and cleaning. Over time, your Davie orthodontist might reduce the wear time.

Clean Regularly: Just like your teeth, retainers can build up plaque and bacteria. Clean them daily using a toothbrush and a non-abrasive toothpaste. Avoid hot water as it can warp the plastic.
Store Safely: When not in use, store your retainer in its case to prevent it from getting lost or damaged.
Regular Check-ups: Continue to see your Tamarac orthodontist for regular check-ups. They will monitor the fit of your retainer and the position of your teeth.

Post-Orthodontic Dental Care

After braces, it’s essential to re-establish a robust dental care routine:

Professional Cleaning: Schedule a thorough dental cleaning after getting your braces off. Braces can make it hard to clean certain areas, so a professional cleaning can ensure no plaque or tartar build-up remains.
Regular Brushing and Flossing: Without brackets and wires in the way, brushing and flossing become easier. Take advantage of this and maintain a regular oral care routine.
Avoid Hard and Sticky Foods Initially: Just as when you first got braces, your mouth might feel sensitive. Ease back into your regular diet gradually.

Support for Your Post-Braces Journey at Smile Every Day Dentistry

At Smile Every Day Dentistry, we understand that life after braces is an exciting yet critical time for maintaining your newly aligned smile. Our team is here to guide you through the post-orthodontic care process, ensuring your results last for years to come. With personalized advice on retainer use, oral hygiene, and dietary adjustments, we help you navigate this phase with confidence. Whether you need a professional cleaning to remove plaque left behind by braces or ongoing guidance for optimal retainer care, our offices in Davie, Plantation, and Tamarac provide comprehensive support for your post-orthodontic needs.

Expertise in Retainers and Post-Orthodontic Care

Dr. Ian Lieberman, our skilled orthodontist, specializes in post-orthodontic care and works closely with patients to create customized retainer plans. His expertise ensures that your teeth stay in place, preserving the hard work that went into your treatment. For general dental health and cleaning after braces, Dr. Sara Daneshpajouh and our team deliver thorough care to keep your smile bright and healthy. By combining orthodontic expertise with holistic dental care, Smile Every Day Dentistry is your trusted partner in maintaining the results of your orthodontic journey.

Schedule a Dental Exam

The journey might seem long, but the results are worth it. By diligently using retainers and maintaining good oral hygiene, you can ensure your teeth stay straight and healthy for years to come. Schedule an exam with our Davie dentist and embrace your new smile and the confidence that comes with it!

November 3, 2023