Orthodontic treatment is a significant, worthwhile investment in your smile. However, the journey doesn’t end when your braces come off, or you’ve worn your last set of clear aligners. Proper post-orthodontic care ensures your teeth stay straight and your smile remains beautiful.
Without proper care, there’s a risk of undoing all the hard work you put into achieving that perfectly symmetrical smile. In this blog, we’ll look at the essentials of post-orthodontic care, including the importance of retainers, maintaining oral hygiene, making smart nutritional choices, and regular dental checkups.
Retainers: Your New Best Friend
When your braces are removed, your dentist or orthodontist will provide a customized retainer. Wearing your retainer as instructed is crucial to keep your teeth in their new positions and prevent them from shifting back.
Understandably, the excitement of finishing orthodontic treatment makes it tempting to skip wearing your retainer. If you do, you jeopardize undoing the results you've worked so hard to achieve.
Differences Between Fixed and Removable Retainers
There are two types of retainers: fixed and removable. Both serve the same purpose but have different benefits.
Fixed Retainers
This type of appliance is bonded to the back of your teeth and is not removable. The main benefit is that your teeth are constantly supported in their new positions.
Fixed retainers are a good option for those who may forget or neglect to wear their removable retainer consistently. However, fixed retainers require diligent oral hygiene, as they can make brushing and flossing slightly more challenging.
Removable Retainers
As the name implies, you can remove these retainers while eating, drinking, and cleaning your teeth. This appliance is convenient and easy to clean, but you must be committed to wearing it as your orthodontist prescribes.
There are different types of removable retainers. Hawley retainers consist of an acrylic plate behind the teeth and a wire in front. Clear aligner-style retainers are just as effective but blend with your smile discreetly.
How Often and How Long to Wear Retainers
The duration and frequency of wearing your retainer depends on your specific case and your dentist’s recommendations. Typically, you will wear your appliance full-time (day and night) for the first few months after your braces are removed, then transition to wearing it only at night.
Skipping or neglecting to wear your retainer as instructed can cause your teeth to shift back to their original positions, called "orthodontic relapse." To maintain your beautiful smile, decide that wearing your retainer is just a continuation of your orthodontic treatment.
Retainers Cleaning and Maintenance
Caring for your retainer properly ensures that it remains effective and lasts as long as possible. Here’s how to keep it clean and functional:
Removable Retainers
Clean your appliance daily with lukewarm water and a soft toothbrush. Gentle soap is fine, but avoid toothpaste, as it can be too abrasive.
Occasionally, soak your appliance in a retainer cleaner or a mixture of water and vinegar to remove plaque or bacteria buildup. Always store it in its case when not in use to prevent damage or loss.
Fixed Retainers
You can’t remove this type of retainer for cleaning, so you must pay extra attention to your daily brushing and flossing habits. Floss threaders or interdental brushes can help you clean around the wire effectively. Regular visits to your dentist or hygienist for professional cleanings are also essential.
Broken or Missing Retainers
If your retainer breaks or goes missing, contact your dentist immediately. Even a few days without allows your teeth to start shifting. The sooner you address the issue, the better your chances of keeping your teeth in their correct positions.
Oral Hygiene after Orthodontics
Proper brushing and flossing are crucial for maintaining healthy teeth and gums. Here are some helpful tips for getting the most out of your oral hygiene routine.
- Brushing — Brush your teeth at least twice daily, especially after meals, with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
- Flossing—Flossing is crucial because it removes plaque and food particles from between teeth. Interdental brushes are also effective for cleaning between teeth.
- Mouthwash — An antimicrobial mouthwash before or after brushing and flossing reduces bacteria in your mouth and promotes healthier gums and fresher breath. A fluoride rinse can also strengthen tooth enamel and protect against cavities.
Post-Orthodontic Nutrition: Foods to Avoid
Post-orthodontic care isn't just about what you do with your teeth and what you eat. Certain foods can damage your retainer or affect the alignment of your teeth. To keep your smile in top shape, it's wise to avoid the following:
- Sticky or Chewy Foods — Caramel, gum, and taffy can stick to your retainer and cause damage.
- Hard Food or Crunchy Foods — Biting into hard foods like nuts, hard candies, and ice can break your retainer or chip your teeth.
- Sugary Snacks — Excessive sugar consumption can lead to cavities, which is the last thing you want after investing in your smile! Opt for healthier snacks like fruits, vegetables, and cheese.
- Staining Foods and Drinks—Coffee, tea, red wine, and certain fruits can stain your teeth and retainer, especially if they are clear. If you do indulge, be sure to brush soon afterward.
Monitoring and Maintaining Your Smile
Even with the best care, teeth can shift slightly over time. Regular dental checkups are essential for monitoring teeth and ensuring everything remains aligned.
Regular Dental Checkups in North York
Regular visits also allow your dentist to address concerns or potential issues early before they become more significant problems. During your checkups, your dentist will check the fit of your retainer and monitor your teeth for signs of shifting. Professional teeth cleanings with your hygienist ensure your teeth and gums remain healthy.
Monitor for Shifting Teeth
Watch for signs of changes in your dental bite or teeth's position. If you notice your teeth are shifting or your retainer feels tighter or looser than usual, schedule an appointment with your dentist or orthodontist as soon as possible. Addressing these issues promptly can help prevent more significant problems in the future.
Dealing with Common Issues
Some post-orthodontic issues you might experience include minor shifting, retainer discomfort, or difficulty cleaning around fixed retainers. If any of these become an issue, don’t hesitate to contact your orthodontist or dentist for advice and solutions on managing them effectively.
Conclusion
Taking care of your teeth after orthodontic treatment is crucial for oral health and maintaining the beautiful results you've achieved. You can enjoy a lifetime of straight, healthy teeth by wearing your retainer as instructed, practising excellent oral hygiene, making smart dietary choices, and attending regular dental checkups.
Call Our North York Clinic with Your Questions
At Emery Village Dental in North York, ON, we are committed to helping our patients maintain their smiles long after their braces come off. Whether you need a retainer adjustment, a professional cleaning, or advice on post-orthodontic care, we are here to support you every step of the way. Schedule your next visit with us and keep your smile looking its best!
