What Happens After Braces?
We know that there is no better feeling than when your braces come off. Some of our patients have been wearing braces for quite a while, and they are full of excitement and big smiles on the day their orthodontic hardware is finally gone. Not that we want to burst anyone’s bubble, but your orthodontic journey doesn’t end the day your braces are removed. Following our after-treatment instructions is just as important as wearing the braces. Continue reading to learn more.
Importance of After-Treatment Care
We know that the day your braces are removed is a very exciting day; however, that is not the end of your orthodontic journey. Teeth can be tricky and love to move out of place. Immediately following the completion of braces treatment, your teeth are the most susceptible to moving out of their new placement. It is extremely important to follow our after-braces instructions to ensure that your beautiful, straight teeth remain in their new placement.
Retainers
The majority of our patients will receive some form of retainer to wear after braces are removed. A retainer is meant to help the muscles and tissue in your mouth hold your teeth in place so they can settle into their new position. Immediately after we remove your braces, we typically recommend that you wear your retainer all the time, except when you are eating or brushing your teeth.
Retainer Tips
It is extremely important that you do not wrap your retainers in a napkin or paper towel while you are eating. Retainers are easy to throw out by mistake. It is also important to remove your retainers while eating. Retainers are fragile and can easily break. It is also wise not to drink any hot liquids while wearing your retainer so you do not melt the plastic. Be sure to clean your retainers daily.
If you have any questions about our treatment instructions, if you lose or break your retainer, or if you experience an emergency, be sure to contact our office located in Southfield, MI to schedule an appointment. We are happy to help you and your loved ones.
