Having braces can be quite an experience. You might spend most of it waiting for the day you finally transition into retainer use! At Innovative Orthodontics, we want you to be prepared for what to expect when you get your braces off!
The Top Three
If you’ve gotten braces or aligners from our office, that means we’ve given you one of the following:
- We offer Invisalign, a transparent, removable alternative to traditional braces.
- Clear braces (aka ceramic braces) can match the color of your teeth and are just as effective as the metal alternative.
- Metal braces are the most traditional and affordable of the three options and are usually the most common choice for our younger patients.
Removable aligners like Invisalign have a different removal process than fixed appliances, of course. But we want to cover both, just in case!
After Traditional Braces
Let’s go over some of the common experiences you can anticipate after having traditional braces removed, especially in the beginning.
- Revealed Transformation: The best part of finishing this treatment is seeing the final transformation of your smile. Dr. Waters or Dr. Clayton may provide you with a mirror at your removal appointment, allowing you to admire the straightened alignment of your teeth. Additionally, we might capture a before-and-after photo to showcase the remarkable changes!
- Relief and Comfort: One of the initial sensations you’ll experience is a profound sense of relief and heightened comfort. The removal of braces eliminates any pressure or tightness associated with the treatment, providing a welcome relief.
- Retainers: In most instances, we will furnish you with retainers to wear. These devices play a crucial role in preserving the newfound alignment of your teeth, preventing any regression. Clear instructions on when and how to wear them will be provided, emphasizing the importance of diligence.
- Smooth Teeth: Your teeth will likely feel exceptionally smooth as the brackets and wires are no longer part of the equation.
- Sensitivity: It’s not uncommon for some patients to experience increased sensitivity in their teeth post-brace removal. Fortunately, this sensitivity typically subsides within the initial week or so.
- Dental Cleaning: A meticulous cleaning may be performed to eliminate any lingering adhesive or plaque from your teeth. This ensures a clean and radiant smile following the removal of braces.
- Final Adjustments: When we check your bite and alignment, final adjustments may be made. This could involve subtle shaping or polishing for optimal results.
- Follow-up Appointments: Expect to be scheduled for several follow-up appointments with us to monitor the stability of your new smile and assess the effectiveness of your retainers. Regular dental check-ups are also recommended for sustained oral health.
- Aftercare Instructions: Our doctors will give you comprehensive aftercare instructions, covering aspects such as retainer usage, maintaining oral hygiene, and any specific recommendations tailored to your unique treatment plan.
After Invisalign
There are going to be some parallels here, but a lot is different given the nature of the treatment.
- Removal of Aligners: Once your Invisalign treatment concludes, there’s no need to continue wearing the aligners. This newfound freedom allows you to savor meals without any constraints imposed by the aligners.
- Orthodontic Check-up: A follow-up appointment with our team is scheduled to verify that your teeth have comfortably settled into their new positions, ensuring the success of your treatment. Any necessary adjustments will be made during this visit.
- Retainers: Much like traditional braces, retainers play a vital role in preserving the recently achieved alignment of your teeth. After Invisalign, you’ll likely adapt quickly to this maintenance process.
- Oral Hygiene Maintenance: Maintaining excellent oral hygiene remains imperative. Regular use of your toothbrush and floss is essential for ongoing dental health.
- Teeth Sensitivity: Temporary sensitivity may occur immediately after the removal of Invisalign aligners, but this typically subsides shortly thereafter.
- Whitening or Cosmetic Procedures: If you’ve chosen additional cosmetic dental procedures, such as teeth whitening, in conjunction with Invisalign, the timing for these treatments can be discussed with our team and your doctor after the initial treatment.
- Adjustments to Daily Routine: With the conclusion of Invisalign treatment, your daily routine undergoes a big shift. The time previously allocated for cleaning and maintaining Invisalign aligners is no longer needed. However, adapting to wearing retainers as directed by our team will become a new aspect of your routine.
Worth The Wait
Completing orthodontic treatment is a significant achievement, and you should take great pride in your journey! We’ve been with you every step of the way, and we’re here to share with you in your celebration. Whether you have questions or encounter any issues after the removal of your appliance, our team is always here to assist and arrange any follow-up visits. Please feel free to contact any of our three incredible offices: Savannah (912-800-0294), Rincon (912-800-0267), and Pooler (912-800-0541).