After months or even years of adjustments and appointments, the day you get your braces off is an exciting one. It’s a moment many orthodontic patients eagerly anticipate, dreaming of a perfectly aligned and unencumbered smile. But the journey to a beautiful smile doesn’t end the moment your braces come off. At Abari Orthodontics and Oral Surgery, we guide our patients through the entire process, including what to expect post-braces. This next phase is crucial for maintaining the results you’ve worked so hard to achieve.
The Role of Retainers
Once your treatment ends, the immediate next step involves retainers. Retainers are custom-made devices, typically made of wires or clear plastic, that help maintain the position of your straightened teeth. After the rigorous process of orthodontic treatment, teeth are at risk of shifting back to their original positions — a process known as relapse. Retainers play a pivotal role in preventing this and ensuring that your teeth remain aligned.
Your orthodontist will provide you with a retainer and detailed instructions on how to wear it. Initially, you may need to wear your retainer all the time for several months. Gradually, this will decrease to wearing it only at night. The duration for which you need to wear your retainer can vary based on individual factors, but it’s common to use them for a prolonged period to solidify the alignment.
Adjustment Period
Just like getting braces, there’s an adjustment period when you start wearing a retainer. You might experience some discomfort and extra saliva, but these symptoms typically subside within a few days as your mouth adjusts to the new appliance. It’s important to follow the usage instructions carefully to avoid extending the treatment time or compromising the results.
Long-Term Care and Maintenance
Maintaining your retainer is just as important as wearing it. Cleaning your retainer should be part of your daily oral hygiene routine. Depending on the type of retainer you have, your orthodontist will recommend specific cleaning methods. This could include brushing it with toothpaste or using a denture cleaner.
Regular dental check-ups are also crucial after orthodontic treatment. These appointments are not just for professional cleaning but also for your orthodontist to check the condition of your retainer and ensure that your teeth remain in their new position.
Life After Braces
After braces, most patients notice a significant improvement not only in the appearance of their teeth but also in their oral health. Straight teeth are easier to clean, which helps prevent gum disease and cavities. Moreover, a well-aligned bite can reduce symptoms of TMJ disorders and other dental issues.
Embracing good habits post-braces will contribute to the long-term health and stability of your teeth. This includes continuing good oral hygiene practices, wearing your retainer as instructed, and attending all follow-up appointments with your orthodontist.
Finding an Orthodontist Near Me
If you’re nearing the end of your braces journey or considering orthodontic treatment, finding a reliable “orthodontist near me” is key. For those in the San Dimas area, Abari Orthodontics and Oral Surgery offers comprehensive post-braces care and guidance. Our experienced team is dedicated to ensuring that the beautiful results achieved with braces are maintained for a lifetime.
It’s important to choose an orthodontist who will not only provide excellent treatment but also follow up on your progress and adjust your post-treatment plan as needed. Our practice is committed to supporting you through every phase of your orthodontic journey.
Do What It Takes to Maintain Your Post-Treatment Results!
The end of treatment marks the beginning of an equally important phase in orthodontic care. Retainers are essential for preserving the alignment of your teeth and ensuring that your investment in your smile is protected for years to come. Remember, the responsibility of maintaining that perfect smile shifts more to you once your braces are off. Regular wear of your retainer, proper oral hygiene, and ongoing check-ups with your “orthodontist near me” are crucial.
At Abari Orthodontics and Oral Surgery in San Dimas, we are proud to support our patients throughout their entire orthodontic journey, ensuring that every smile we care for remains bright, beautiful, and healthy long after the braces come off. If you have any questions about what happens after braces or need support with your retainers, our team is here to help. Embrace your new smile and the new responsibilities that come with it, confident in the knowledge that you are backed by expert care and support.
