After months (or years) of avoiding certain foods, using special tools to complete your oral hygiene routine, and dealing with everything else that comes with braces, it’s time to see your new and improved smile! After your orthodontist removes your braces, congratulates you on completing your treatment, and sends you on your way, you may have one important question on your mind: What now? Keep reading to learn what you can expect from life after braces.
You’ll Be Free to Eat All Your Favorite Foods Again
Undergoing orthodontic treatment comes with its share of sacrifices, like having to give up corn on the cob, apples, and gum. However, once your braces are off, you’ll be free to indulge in all of these and more! Just make sure to continue to limit your sugar consumption and avoid poor dental habits (like chewing on ice) to protect your beautiful smile from decay and damage.
You May Experience Some Sensitivity
Over the course of your treatment, your teeth are under constant pressure. Once your braces are removed, they may need some time to adjust. Therefore, it’s a good idea to be cautious of extremely crunchy or chewy foods, like peanut brittle. Don’t worry – the adjustment period is typically short-lived, ensuring you can work your way back up to your normal diet in no time.
You’ll Start Wearing Your Retainer
After investing both your time and money on braces, the last thing you want is for your teeth to begin shifting back into their previous position. To prevent that from happening, you’ll be given a retainer following your treatment. Typically, you will be asked to wear it anytime you aren’t eating, drinking, or completing your oral hygiene routine until your teeth are “set.” From there, you’ll be able to transition to wearing them solely at night.
You Should Continue to Visit Your Orthodontist
Even after your orthodontic treatment is complete, it is important to visit your orthodontist regularly. Not only will this ensure any minor issues are caught in the early stages, but it will also allow them to keep an eye on potential complications, like emerging wisdom teeth. Plus, these appointments provide you with a valuable opportunity to check the condition of your retainer and ask questions that have come up since your last visit.
Life after braces can be liberating! Just make sure to follow your aftercare instructions to ensure you can enjoy the freedoms without compromising your smile.
About the Author
Born and raised right here in Jacksonville, Dr. William “Vaughn” Holland is a fourth-generation dentist who is passionate about helping patients in his community achieve the smile of their dreams. He earned his dental doctorate at the University of Florida College of Dentistry (where he graduated with honors) before completing his Specialty Certificate in Orthodontics. Today, he loves using his extensive education, advanced training, and genuine passion for his craft to create custom treatment plans that deliver results that WOW. If you’re interested in learning more about life after braces or are looking for an orthodontist in Jacksonville, then don’t hesitate to get in touch via our website or by phone at 904-388-4600.