What’s better than waiting months and months, or even years and years, and finally getting off those pesky braces? We at Bennett Orthodontics can’t think of too much that can beat that oh-my-gosh-they’re-off! feeling, if we’re being honest.
Now that you’ve taken care of the hard part, it’s more important than ever that you’re adequately informed about some of the crucial steps to laying a good foundation for orthodontic health moving forward.
Well, Dr. Todd Bennett is your very own Mobile ortho expert! We sat down with him and asked him to go over a few of the most critical aspects of your orthodontic care in the crucial first few weeks and months after debonding. Let’s get started!
Step 1 – Tips for Retainers
Your retainer is the single most crucial aspect of your post-braces success. Studies show that many patients discontinue retainer use after the first few months and that this is far and away the most common cause of further orthodontic difficulties down the road.
You’ve worked hard over months or even years to get the best smile possible! Dr. Bennett wants you to keep that smile, so be sure and get comfortable with that retainer!
Let’s talk a little bit about maintaining your new best friend.
Retainer care
Your retainer is essential for maintaining alignment, so be sure and keep it clean and well-protected. You’ll want to wear your retainer at least 22 hours a day for the first six months and have a high-quality cleaning fluid to soak in when it’s out.
Be sure and avoid leaving your retainer near any significant heat sources, as these can cause it to warp its shape and become less effective.
It goes without saying, but be sure to keep your retainer safe when out of use. You should also consider having a backup on hand, and that’s why the folks at Bennett Orthodontics have top-of-the-line equipment ready to 3D print yours today.
Step 2 – Stay on top of your routine!
Now that you’re out of braces, it’s time to ensure that you keep up a great habit of brushing in the morning and at night, as well as after snacks.
You’ve been diligent so far, and now that the goal of your ideal smile is closer than ever, make sure to brush often and properly: use soft bristles at a 45-degree angle for at least 2 minutes at a time. Be sure and brush the insides of your teeth – just because you can’t see them doesn’t mean they aren’t just as crucial for a healthy mouth!
A new brush is a happy brush. Make sure you’re swapping your brush out every three months or so to keep things moving in the right direction.
Step 3 – Don’t be a stranger!
Dr. Bennett is thrilled to have helped you to this stage of your orthodontic journey. Your braces are off! But remember to keep up with a regular schedule of check-ups and cleanings.
Let’s keep that smile gleaming! An initial cleaning after removal is a great way to go, as there is a certain degree of expected plaque buildup during your treatment. You’ll probably want to come back about once every six months too.
Step 4 – Whitening can be fun!
Some patients choose to have a whitening procedure after getting their braces off. That’s A-Ok, and it can be a great way to offset some of the natural discoloration that is bound to occur during the braces process. Certain spots are just unreachable with them on, and here at Bennett Orthodontics, we know you want to look your best.
Just remember, your teeth will be a little sensitive in the first week or two after debonding, and a professional whitening could aggravate that sensitivity, so it’s best to wait a little while.
We Can’t wait to see you again!
We Can’t wait to see you again! Everyone here at Bennett orthodontics is so proud of you! You did it! And we know that you want to be certain that your post-braces care is handled by the best in the business. That’s why Dr. Bennett works hard to stay at the absolute cutting edge of orthodontic care, regularly familiarizing himself with the newest technology and methods.
But he’s not just a skilled professional. He’s also a member of the Mobile community. He’s board-certified by the American Dental Association, The American Association of Orthodontists, and the Alabama Association of Orthodontists, to name a few. But he’s even more proud to be named Partner in Education with several local Mobile schools and a devoted husband and father.
That’s why you know that he really means it when he says he has your best interest in mind. So don’t hesitate to come back and see us for all your orthodontic needs!
