The day has finally arrived. Your braces are coming off, which means your orthodontic journey is officially over! Or so you thought. Although you’ll have the straight smile you’ve been wanting, your work isn’t done just yet. Once your braces are removed, there are a few critical steps you’ll need to take so your hard-earned results never fade. That said, here’s what to expect and how you can adjust to life after braces.
You’ll Have to Wear a Retainer
After your braces are removed, you’ll need to wear a retainer to preserve your new smile. It’s an orthodontic tool that helps keep your teeth from shifting to their pre-treatment position. Essentially, you can view retainers as an insurance plan for life after braces. Shortly before your braces come off, you and your orthodontist will discuss your options and decide on the best type of retainer for your lifestyle.
Here are two options available to most patients:
- Fixed Retainers – These are bonded to the back of your teeth, making them virtually invisible. They’re most commonly used for bottom teeth. Keep in mind that fixed retainers are not permanent and can be removed within a few months to a few years.
- Removable Retainers – These are commonly used for the top teeth and only need to be worn at nighttime. Depending on your needs, your orthodontist may recommend a specific treatment plan to keep your teeth aligned.
You Can Eat Freely Once Again
While undergoing orthodontic treatment, you were advised to stay away from certain foods and drinks. Well, once your braces are removed, you’re free to enjoy these foods once again! That means you can bite into an apple, munch on a corn on the cob, or indulge in a handful of crunchy chips if you want to. Now that your braces are off, you no longer have to worry about avoiding these snacks!
Your Teeth Will Be Sensitive
For the entire duration of your orthodontic treatment, your teeth have been under constant tension to move into the correct position. As a result, your pearly whites will feel quite different once your braces come off. They’ll likely feel more exposed and sensitive for a while afterward. That said, you may want to give yourself some time to adjust to life after braces before eating crunchy or chewy foods.
Your Smile Might Look Discolored
Even if you were diligent about brushing and flossing while wearing braces, your teeth may still look discolored once they’re removed. But don’t worry – it’s completely normal! If you’re particularly concerned by it, your orthodontist may recommend some form of professional teeth whitening to fix it. However, since your teeth will be sensitive immediately following the removal of your braces, you’ll have to wait about one to two months before getting a whitening treatment.
If you want to maintain that beautiful smile you worked so hard to achieve, you must take proper care of your teeth after your braces are removed. It’s the best way to ensure your hard-earned results never fade!
About the Practice
At Rauchberg Dental Group, we provide comprehensive, exceptional, individually tailored dental services that patients of all ages can enjoy. Our team will always go above and beyond to ensure your smile remains happy and healthy for life. If you need help adjusting to life after braces, we’ve got you covered. Visit our website or call (973) 718-9887 to speak to a member of our team.