Tips to Ensure Successful Retention After Braces or Aligners

Committing to a Retainer

The best way to retain your smile after orthodontic treatment is by wearing a retainer, reports Healthline. Because each patient has unique needs, you'll have specific instructions about wearing the retainer. For example, you might wear it full-time for a few months after braces or aligners. In contrast, our Winter Park orthodontics staff might ask for nighttime wear only. Follow any instructions so that the retention is successful.
 

Focusing on Dental Visits

Aside from keeping regular appointments with our Orlando braces team, schedule dental visits, too. By combining these two professional visits, your oral care is prioritized. Dentists might encounter cavities and other issues that might impact retention, for instance. By pinpointing any issues early on, you protect your overall dental health. Undoubtedly, tooth and gum decay can lead to retention issues and further orthodontic treatment. For any questions about retaining a beautiful smile, contact Dr. Dann Orthodontics today!
 

Stopping Bad Habits

Braces and aligners use controlled pressure to move your teeth into the proper position. Certainly, other pressures can perform the same function, but with tooth misalignment as a result. Avoid these bad habits, such as:

• Nail or cuticle biting
• Chewing ice or pen tops
• Smoking or vaping

Also, treat any sleep ailments that might impact your teeth. Teeth grinding, for instance, can cause both dental and orthodontic issues. Whether a bad habit is intentional or subconscious, it can still damage the teeth and gums over time.
 

Planning Daily Meals

Another clever way to retain your healthy smile is by eating a diet rich in calcium and vitamin D. These two substances play a key role in bone strength, which also extends to the teeth. When your teeth have ample nutrients, they remain robust and able to stay in one position. Weakened teeth from deficiencies can lead to misalignment.
 

Cleaning and Protecting Your Teeth

One of the simplest ways to ensure successful retention is to keep up with your oral hygiene. Ideally, our Orlando braces team suggests twice-daily brushing and flossing. If you have a sugary treat, rinse your mouth with water afterward. This practice reduces tartar and plaque buildup.

Also, wear a mouth guard if you play any rough sports. Accidental tooth damage can move your teeth out of alignment. By working with our talented staff, we can suggest other strategies to protect your smile and keep it clean simultaneously.