At Sohn Orthodontics, we know how exciting it can be to finally see your new smile after getting your braces removed. However, this doesn’t mean that the work is over! To keep your smile looking as beautiful as the day you removed your braces, Dr. Sohn will provide tips on maintaining your beautiful new smile. Of course, brushing and flossing regularly are essential, but there are also a few other things that you can do to help keep your teeth healthy and sparkling. Let’s get started!
Keep up with your orthodontic appointments
After removing your braces, you must continue with your appointments for a while. This way, Dr. Sohn can ensure that your teeth stay in their new position and make necessary adjustments if needed. Additionally, orthodontic check-ups help detect early signs of potential issues before they become more serious, so regular appointments are essential for orthodontic success.
Wear your retainer
Getting braces is hard work, and wearing a retainer is key to keeping your teeth in the correct alignment. Depending on your orthodontic treatment plan, Dr. Sohn may recommend wearing a retainer during the day, at night, or both. Following these instructions is important; your teeth may still be prone to shifting back to their original position.
The better you care for your retainers, the easier it will be to maintain oral health. At Sohn Orthodontics, we recommend cleaning your retainers regularly to keep them free from bacteria and storing them in the case provided when you’re not wearing them. It’s always good to bring them to your check-ups to ensure they fit you well.
Eat & drink mindfully
You may be tempted to indulge in various sugary or starchy snacks or drinks you’ve been holding off on. Still, after removing your orthodontic appliance, it’s important to remember that your teeth are more sensitive than usual. Eating and drinking the wrong foods can damage your orthodontic work and cause staining on your freshly aligned teeth.
Maintain a strict oral health routine
Your orthodontic treatment took a lot of hard work, and to continue benefiting from the results for as long as possible, and it’s important to maintain a strict oral health routine. Brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing at least once daily is the best way to keep bacteria at bay and maintain good oral hygiene. In addition, supplemental devices such as a Waterpik can help you remove any other food or bacteria lodged between your teeth and gums, helping prevent gum disease and maintain your new smile.
Whiten to brighten
Once you get your braces removed, you might notice some slight discoloration and opaque spotting on your teeth. Also referred to as decalcifications, this can occur during orthodontic treatment if good oral hygiene is not maintained. Minor decalcifications may be resolved with some whitening treatments. Your oral hygiene during treatment can also affect how stained your newly straightened smile may be. Dr. Sohn will assess your freshly straightened smile and provide you with all the options available and refer you to your dentist. .
Stay Smiling for Longer with Dr. Sohn!
At Sohn Orthodontics, we are here to help you get the beautiful smile you’ve always wanted! Follow these steps, and you’re sure to keep your orthodontic success in check! If you have any questions or concerns about post-braces care or whitening treatment options, please don’t hesitate to reach out and book an appointment with us today. We look forward to helping you keep your smile perfect for years!