Keep Your Teeth Straight After Braces

This blog post is intended for people who already have or have just finished up using braces to straighten their teeth. If you're considering braces, check out our blog post about things to consider before getting them in the first place.

After completing orthodontic treatment, you're undoubtedly very excited to show your straight new smile to the world. Unfortunately, many people start to notice their teeth shifting back into their old position after braces if they don't take the proper precautions. Here are the best ways to keep your teeth straight after braces.

Why Do Teeth Shift After Braces?

The teeth were originally in a certain position, and they will always try to gravitate back to that old position. Once the braces are no longer forcing your teeth into their new position, the teeth will fight to move back where they were. This is the reason that you have to take action to keep your new smile intact.

Wear Your Retainers

After braces are taken off, most people need to wear retainers. This may include an upper retainer, a lower retainer, or even both. In the time immediately after the braces are removed, retainers need to be worn at all times in most cases. However, after a while the dentist will usually give you the go-ahead to wear the retainers only while you sleep.

Practice Good Oral Hygiene

The number one reason that teeth start to shift is loss of a tooth. The other teeth will try to move into that vacated area, which leads to considerable shifting. The best way to avoid too loss is to practice excellent oral hygiene. Consistent brushing and flossing is a great start, and having regular dental checkups is equally important in preventing tooth loss.

Watch Teeth Position Closely

Once your braces are removed, you're the one who is largely in charge of making sure your teeth stay straight. Watch your teeth position closely. If you notice even a slight change in teeth position, it's time to see the dentist. Shifting teeth will usually continue to shift even further, and eventually they may become completely misaligned again. Reacting immediately when you notice any slight shift in your teeth may help you save your straight smile. However, if you wait until the teeth have already shifted significantly, it may be necessary to have a second round of braces to straighten them out again.

Keeping your teeth straight after braces doesn't have to be difficult. Just follow the simple tips above to make sure that your shiny new smile stays straight and beautiful!

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