Exceptional Dental Care in Smyrna
You've Got the Perfect Smile. Now, Let's Keep It That Way.
Congratulations! You’ve completed your orthodontic journey and now have the beautiful, straight smile you’ve worked so hard for. The day your braces come off is a huge milestone, but it's not the end of your journey. It marks the beginning of the most important phase: retention. At Smyrna Dental Studio, we are committed to helping you protect your investment and ensure your stunning results last a lifetime. This guide will walk you through the simple, essential steps to keep your teeth perfectly aligned for years to come.
The Single Most Important Step: Wear Your Retainer
After your braces are removed, the ligaments and bone that support your teeth are still stabilizing. Without the gentle guidance of a retainer, your teeth have a natural tendency to shift back toward their original positions. A retainer is the only thing that prevents this orthodontic relapse.
Understanding Your Retainer Options
We will provide you with a custom retainer designed for your specific needs. The most common types include:
Clear Plastic Retainers (Essix): These are the most popular option. They are transparent, comfortable, and custom-molded to fit perfectly over your teeth, making them virtually invisible.
Hawley Retainers: This traditional style consists of a durable acrylic piece that fits against the roof of your mouth and a thin metal wire that sits across the front of your teeth.
Fixed (Permanent) Retainers: This is a very thin wire that is permanently bonded to the back of your lower front teeth, providing constant retention without you having to think about it.
Initially, you will need to wear your removable retainer full-time. Over time, we will likely advise you to wear it only at night. Consistent use is the key to success.
Protecting Your Smile: Long-Term Habits for Success
Beyond your retainer, a few healthy habits will help ensure your smile stays straight and beautiful for life.
Maintain Excellent Oral Hygiene
Healthy gums and strong bone are the foundation that holds your teeth in place.
Brush and Floss Daily: This is especially important with a fixed retainer, which can trap plaque.
Attend Regular Cleanings: Professional cleanings every six months are essential for preventing gum disease, which can lead to tooth shifting.
Be Mindful of Pressure and Habits
Excessive pressure can cause teeth to move over time.
Address Teeth Grinding (Bruxism): If you grind your teeth at night, a custom nightguard is crucial to protect your teeth from wear and shifting.
Manage Tongue Thrust: If your tongue pushes against your front teeth when you swallow, it can create pressure that leads to gaps. We can help identify and address this habit.
What If My Teeth Have Already Shifted?
If you notice that your retainer feels tight or that your teeth have begun to shift, please call us immediately. The sooner we address the issue, the easier the solution will be. For minor shifting, a new retainer may be all that's needed. For more significant relapse, a short course of Invisalign can often guide your teeth back into their perfect position quickly and discreetly.
Your Partner in a Lifetime of Straight Smiles
Your orthodontic result is a team effort, and we are here to support you long after your braces come off. At Smyrna Dental Studio, we are dedicated to helping you maintain the beautiful, healthy smile you've invested in.
Expert Guidance: We provide clear, personalized instructions for your retention phase.
Custom Retainer Solutions: We offer a variety of retainers to fit your lifestyle and needs.
Long-Term Monitoring: We will check your alignment and retainer at your regular dental visits to ensure everything is perfect.
Solutions for Relapse: If shifting occurs, we have the tools to quickly and effectively correct it.
Ready to protect your investment and keep your smile perfect for life?
Contact Smyrna Dental Studio today if you have any questions about your retainer, notice any shifting, or are ready to schedule your next check-up.