Many patients breathe a sigh of relief when having their braces removed. It takes plenty of time & effort to get the orthodontic outcome you’re looking for, and it is exciting for most to see the results of all their hard work finally. This leads to likely the most common question patients tend to ask: will my teeth stay like this without braces?

The good news is… the answer is yes! But it requires some commitment to follow your orthodontist’s instructions moving forward, which almost always involves using a retainer.

 

What to Expect Immediately After Braces Are Removed

Once your braces or invisalign are removed, your teeth will go through a process of settling. Settling is entirely normal and expected and not a bad thing at all. It can help your teeth to reach an optimum level of comfort and stability. With the help of constant retainer wear in the months immediately following the removal of your braces, you can attain the right amount of settling while ensuring that your body continues to adjust to the new and improved positioning of your teeth.

 

The Main Causes of Teeth Movement

Any frequent pressure or pushing on your teeth can cause them to shift. Chewing and talking, especially the pressure your tongue places on your teeth, are common reasons for tooth movement. Not to mention, your body may still work to move your teeth back to their original position after you’ve had braces. It is, after all, what your body intended! This natural shifting of teeth is another reason why wearing your retainer per your orthodontist’s instructions is critical to secure your teeth.

 

The Ins and Outs of Retainer Wear

While you may be surprised or frustrated to learn that after removing your braces, you’ll still need to wear another orthodontic appliance, don’t get discouraged just yet. It is likely that immediately after your braces have been removed. Your orthodontist will instruct you to wear your retainer for several months to help prevent any drastic movement as your teeth settle. The good news is, when used properly, over time, you will be instructed to wear your retainer less and less frequently. Eventually, retainer wear is usually only required a few nights a month. Luckily, cleaning your retainer is a breeze. All it takes is a toothbrush, hand soap, or dish detergent to keep it in tip-top shape.

 

Trust Bubble Dentistry’s Guidance to Keep Your Teeth in Place

While post-treatment retainer wear is essential to keeping your teeth in place, it doesn’t have to be a hassle. Bubble Children’s Dentistry & Orthodontics will provide you with individualized recommendations after removing your braces to ensure that your teeth look just as they were intended. Call today to learn more about how your retainer can keep your smile looking perfect. You can reach us by calling (617) 655-9410 or by requesting an appointment on our website.