Orthodontics · 2 min read
How to maintain your smile after orthodontic treatment
Retainers, habits and check-ups: what helps keep teeth in their new positions for the long term.
Supriya Multispeciality Dental Clinic, Published
The day your braces come off or you finish your last aligner is exciting. But teeth have a natural tendency to drift, so what you do next matters just as much as the treatment itself.
Why teeth move after treatment
After teeth have been moved, the surrounding gums and bone need time to adapt to their new positions. Teeth also continue to change gradually throughout life. Retainers help hold everything in place while this happens.
Types of retainers
- Removable retainers — clear or wire appliances you take out to eat and clean.
- Fixed retainers — a thin wire bonded behind the front teeth.
Wearing your retainer
Your orthodontist will tell you how often to wear your retainer — often full-time at first, then mostly at night. Follow these instructions closely, and don’t stop wearing it without checking first.
Caring for retainers
- Clean removable retainers daily with a soft brush and cool water.
- Keep them in their case when they’re not in your mouth.
- Avoid hot water, which can warp clear retainers.
- Bring your retainer to check-ups so the fit can be reviewed.
This article is general information and isn’t a substitute for advice from a dentist who has examined you. Treatment suitability is determined after an in-person dental consultation.