Finally having your braces taken off can be a huge moment of relief for many people, but the journey to a straight smile shouldn’t end there. In order to keep your new smile as beautiful as possible, you’ll need to maintain good oral hygiene and care for your teeth following the removal of your braces. With proper maintenance, you’ll be able to achieve a straight, confident smile that will last a lifetime. Here are some tips on how to take care of your smile post-braces, what to expect in terms of the duration of after care, and ideas for keeping your smile healthy for years to come.
Getting an After Care Plan
Once your braces are removed and you’ve achieved the smile you’ve been looking for, you’ll receive an orthodontic after care plan from your dentist or orthodontist. This plan will typically involve periodic visits to the dentist for checkups, as well as guidance on maintaining your new smile through proper oral care. Your orthodontist may also provide you with a new set of retainers to help you keep your teeth from moving after braces are removed.
Follow Good Oral Hygiene Habits
It is important to keep practicing good oral hygiene after your braces are removed to help keep your teeth healthy and free of bacteria. This includes brushing your teeth at least twice a day for two to three minutes each time, using a fluoride toothpaste and flossing between your teeth. You can also use an antibacterial mouthwash to help remove bacteria and plaque from hard-to-reach areas of your mouth.
Take Care of Your Retainers
In addition to keeping up with your regular oral care routine, you’ll also need to take care of your new retainers. These devices are necessary to help keep your teeth straight now that your braces are off. It is important to clean your retainer regularly using a soft-bristled toothbrush and a mild detergent. Make sure to never use hot water or bleach, as this can warp or damage the plastic material. Store your retainers in a case when not in use to protect them from potential damage.
Pay Attention to What You Eat
It is important to be mindful of what you eat after you have braces taken off. Sticky and hard foods can potentially damage your new smile, so it is best to avoid these types of foods whenever possible. Examples include hard candies, popcorn, gum, hard or sticky candy, chips, and nuts. Try to eat a well-balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables and other nutrient-rich foods to help keep your teeth, gums and overall oral health in good shape.
Don’t Neglect Regular Dental Visits
After you have your braces removed, it is important to continue seeing your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings. Your dentist will be able to monitor your oral health and provide guidance on how to best care for your new smile. He or she will also be able to detect any potential dental problems early on and provide treatment or advice on how to fix them.
Keeping Your Smile Healthy
Having your braces taken off is definitely an exciting time, but it is important to keep up with good habits in order to maintain your new and improved smile. Make sure to keep your teeth and retainers clean and to avoid eating foods that can potentially cause harm. Better yet, make an effort to eat a nutritious and balanced diet that can help support optimal oral health. In addition, don’t forget to visit your dentist regularly in order to stay on top of any potential dental problems.
By following these recommendations, you will be on your way to a healthy, confident and beautiful new smile.