Orthodontic treatment is a transformative journey that involves aligning your teeth and achieving a beautiful, functional smile. The moment your braces come off or your clear aligners are no longer needed, you enter a new phase in your dental care routine. While the main part of your orthodontic journey might be over, there are essential steps you should take to maintain the results and ensure the longevity of your newly aligned smile.
Retainers are Your New Best Friends
After the active phase of your orthodontic treatment, Dr. Larissa Davids will provide you with retainers. These are custom-made appliances designed to hold your teeth in their new positions, preventing them from shifting back to their original alignment. Retainers can be removable or fixed (bonded behind your teeth), and their regular use is crucial to maintaining the results you’ve achieved.
Follow Your Orthodontist’s Recommendations
Dr. L. Davids and her staff will provide specific instructions about how often to wear your retainers. In the beginning, it’s common to wear them all the time, gradually transitioning to wearing them only at night. It’s crucial to follow these recommendations to prevent any relapse and keep your teeth in their optimal positions.
Maintain Oral Hygiene
Proper oral hygiene becomes even more important after your orthodontic treatment. With braces or aligners, it can be challenging to clean your teeth effectively, making them more susceptible to plaque buildup and potential staining. Now that you’re free of these devices, it’s time to step up your oral care routine. We recommend to brush your teeth twice a day, floss daily, and consider using a fluoride mouthwash to keep your teeth strong and healthy.
Schedule Retainer Check-ups
Even though your active orthodontic treatment is complete, your relationship with your orthodontist isn’t over. Regular check-ups are essential to monitor the stability of your results and address any potential issues early on. Dr. L. Davids can assess how well your retainers are working and make any necessary adjustments to ensure your smile remains aligned.
Monitor for Changes
Even with diligent retainer use, your teeth might shift slightly over time due to the natural tendency of teeth to move. If you notice any changes in your bite, alignment, or the way your retainers fit, please contact our orthodontic office promptly. Dr. L. Davids and her staff can assess the situation and recommend any necessary adjustments.
Post-Orthodontic Treatment
Completing your orthodontic treatment is a significant achievement, but it’s not the end of the road. By wearing your retainers as instructed, maintaining good oral hygiene and attending regular check-ups, you can enjoy the lasting benefits of your beautifully aligned smile. Remember that the effort you put into post-treatment care is just as important as the journey that led you here. Your smile is worth the continued commitment to preserving its newfound perfection.
Good luck,
Rego Park Orthodontics.