Congratulations! You’ve completed your journey with braces and achieved a stunning, straight smile. But your orthodontic journey doesn’t end here. The next phase—retention—is crucial to maintaining the results you’ve worked so hard to achieve. At Tomblyn Family Orthodontics, we’re committed to ensuring your new smile lasts a lifetime with the right care and guidance. Here’s what our patients in Austin, Cedar Park, Pflugerville and Round Rock, TX need to know about life after braces, retainers and long-term oral care.
The Importance of Retention
Retention begins the moment your braces are removed. While braces move your teeth into their desired positions, retainers are essential for keeping them there. Your teeth are naturally inclined to shift over time, especially in the months following orthodontic treatment. Wearing your retainers as prescribed helps prevent this movement and maintains the alignment achieved during treatment.
At Tomblyn Family Orthodontics, we’ll monitor your progress during the retention phase for approximately 12 months to ensure your smile stays on track. For the first few months, you’ll wear your retainers full-time, except when eating or brushing your teeth. After this initial retention phase, you’ll transition to wearing them only at night.
Keep in mind that your mouth, like the rest of your body, changes as you age. This is why it’s essential to continue wearing your retainers nightly, even years after completing your orthodontic treatment. Consistency is key to preserving your beautiful smile.
Types of Retainers
Orthodontic retainers come in two primary types: removable retainers and fixed retainers. Each has its benefits, and the best option for you will depend on your specific needs and lifestyle.
Removable Orthodontic Retainers
Removable retainers are a popular choice for post-braces care. At Tomblyn Family Orthodontics, we offer two types of removable retainers:
- Clear Aligner Retainers: These are virtually invisible and fit snugly over your teeth, making them a discreet option for maintaining your smile.
- Wire Aligner Retainers: These retainers feature a wire that holds your teeth in place and are durable and effective.
Proper care for removable retainers is essential to ensure their longevity and effectiveness. Here are some tips:
- Keep Them Safe: Always store your retainers in their designated case when not in use. Because clear retainers are nearly invisible, they can be easily misplaced or accidentally thrown away. Be mindful of where you put them, and keep them out of reach of pets, as dogs are notorious for chewing on retainers.
- Clean Them Regularly: Brush your retainers daily with soap and water—not toothpaste, which can be abrasive. This will help remove bacteria and maintain their clarity.
How Often Should You Wear Your Retainers?
For the first several months after your braces are removed, you’ll need to wear your retainers at all times, except during meals, while brushing, or when participating in certain activities like swimming or contact sports.
After the initial retention phase, your orthodontist will likely recommend transitioning to nighttime wear only. This allows your teeth to settle into their new positions while giving you the freedom to enjoy your day without retainers. However, nightly wear should continue indefinitely to prevent your teeth from shifting over time.
Fixed Orthodontic Retainers
Fixed retainers consist of thin wires bonded to the back of your front teeth, providing continuous support without the need to remove or remember them.
Fixed retainers are an excellent option for:
- Patients with significant crowding or rotation of the lower front teeth before treatment.
- Individuals who began treatment with large gaps between their teeth.
While fixed retainers are convenient and effective, they do require diligent oral hygiene. Because they can be challenging to clean around, it’s important to:
- Brush Thoroughly: Pay extra attention to the areas around the retainer wire to remove plaque and food particles.
- Floss Regularly: Use floss threaders or special orthodontic floss to clean between teeth and around the retainer.
Retention: Long-Term Care for Your Smile
Your retainers are the foundation of maintaining your straight smile, but they’re not the only factor. Long-term care also involves:
- Regular Dental Checkups: Make sure to keep up with regular dental visits for cleanings and exams. These appointments are vital for detecting and addressing any oral health issues early.
- Good Oral Hygiene: Brush and floss daily to prevent cavities and gum disease, which can compromise your orthodontic results.
- Healthy Habits: Avoid habits like biting your nails or chewing on hard objects, which can damage your teeth and retainers.
Retention: Request Your Consultation in Austin, TX Today
If you’re nearing the end of your orthodontic treatment and on the verge of retention or have questions about life after braces, the team at Tomblyn Family Orthodontics is here to help. Whether you need guidance on retainer care, advice on maintaining your smile, or a consultation for fixed or removable retainers, we’re dedicated to supporting you every step of the way.
Your smile is a lifelong investment, and we’re here to ensure it stays as radiant as the day your braces came off. At Tomblyn Family Orthodontics in Austin, TX, we proudly serve families in Travis County. Contact us today to request your consultation and take the next step in your orthodontic journey.