The day your child gets their removed is a significant milestone, marking the end of a lengthy and sometimes challenging journey toward a perfect smile. However, doesn’t mean the end of orthodontic care. Maintaining that newly aligned smile requires continued attention and care. That’s why we recommend consulting with our Ann Arbor, MI, orthodontist.
In the meantime, here’s what you need to know about what you and your child can expect after getting braces taken off.
Do I Have to Wear a Retainer?
Orthodontic retainers are crucial in ensuring that your child’s teeth stay in their new positions. After the traditional metal braces are removed, teeth can shift back to their original places if not properly maintained. To prevent this reality, our local orthodontist will provide a custom-made retainer for your child, which must be worn as directed.
Typically, this means wearing it full-time initially, and then gradually transitioning to nighttime wear. Consistency is key here as skipping days can lead to significant shifts and the possibility of needing orthodontic treatment again in the future. This is true whether you had braces or underwent clear aligner therapy.
Getting your teeth straight is one part of the process. Keeping them straight is the other. A retainer tailored to your mouth is only available by seeing an orthodontist, like Dr. Bedi, who understands your treatment history.
How to Maintain Oral Hygiene
Now that braces are gone, it should be much easier to care for teeth. Your child can also return to eating all of their favorite foods as long as they keep up with daily oral hygiene. Our orthodontist recommends you continue to brush at least twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste and floss at least once. Integrating a mouthwash into your routine is also beneficial.
For flossing, your child can use waxed or woven options, depending on personal preferences. It’s a little more of an investment but introducing a water flosser for additional cleaning power can remove plaque even in the hard-to-reach areas.
Regular Dental Checkups
Regular visits to the dentist are essential. These checkups will help in monitoring the health of your child’s teeth and gums. The dentist can also ensure that the retainer fits properly and is functioning as it should. It’s generally recommended to visit the dentist every six months, but our Ann Arbor orthodontist might suggest more frequent visits initially.
Diet & Habits Post-Braces
The dietary restrictions regarding what you can and can’t eat with braces are largely lifted. However, it’s still wise to encourage healthy eating habits. Sugary and sticky foods should be limited as they can lead to tooth decay. Encourage your child to eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and dairy products to maintain strong teeth and gums.
Monitoring & Adjustments
Over time, your child’s mouth will change and grow, which might necessitate adjustments to their retainer or even a new retainer altogether. Regular follow-ups with our orthodontist will help track any changes and address them promptly. If your child notices any discomfort or changes in how their retainer fits, it’s important to consult our orthodontist immediately.
Addressing Wisdom Teeth
For older children and teenagers, wisdom teeth can be a concern. These teeth, which usually emerge between the ages of 17 and 25, can cause crowding and misalignment. Regular dental visits will include monitoring the development of wisdom teeth. In some cases, removal might be recommended to prevent any negative impact on the alignment achieved with dental braces.
Maintaining Self-Confidence
The removal of traditional dental braces is often a boost to your child’s self-confidence. They can now smile without hesitation, and this newfound confidence should be nurtured. Encourage your child to smile often and take pride in their dental health. Positive reinforcement about the importance of their retainer and oral hygiene can help them maintain these good habits long-term.
Schedule an Appointment with Dr. Bedi
Is your child fast approaching the end of their orthodontic treatment? Schedule an appointment with Dr. Jashleen Bedi to discuss their next steps. Our orthodontist in Ann Arbor, MI, would be more than happy to offer tips and advice, setting your child up for success. Call Enhance Orthodontics at (734) 821-7684 or fill out our online contact form.
This blog post has been updated.