Post-orthodontic care

Once we remove your braces, we will move into the retention stage of your treatment. Maintaining the results you achieved during the treatment phase is key to the success of the entire orthodontic process. Your retention phase will last for a minimum of 24 months. Your final orthodontic result depends on your retainers, so follow through with the hard work you've put in so far.

Care tips

Once your orthodontic procedure is completed, retainers will be provided to maintain your teeth's alignment.

Your retainer Detachable Retainer Transparent Retainer Fixed Retainer

Your retainer

Upon finishing your orthodontic treatment, retainers will be given to ensure your teeth remain straight. This is crucial since teeth have a tendency to move post-treatment.

Due to the ligaments connecting tooth roots to the bone, teeth have a certain memory and tend to revert to their original positions. Teeth also shift as we age, so it is recommended to wear retainers at night if you want to maintain straight teeth.

Your retainer will be examined during a follow-up appointment, and you can always contact us to schedule a retainer check.

Detachable Retainer

Initially, the retainer should be worn constantly, even while eating. Only remove it to clean and brush your teeth. Eventually, you'll only need to wear it at night.

It may temporarily impact your speech and eating abilities. Be patient.

Retainers won't get lost if they're in your mouth. If one is lost or broken, there are charges for replacements or lab repairs. To clean, use liquid dish soap and a dedicated toothbrush. Don't heat the retainer, as it will warp.

Transparent Retainer

This unique retainer design allows you to wear it only while sleeping. Store it in its case during daytime to prevent loss or damage.

To clean, use liquid dish soap and a dedicated toothbrush. Don't heat the retainer, as it will warp.

In case of loss or breakage, contact us immediately. Replacement retainers have a fee, and they don't last forever.

Fixed Retainer

A fixed retainer consists of a wire glued to the rear side of the teeth.

This retainer type is typically used on lower front teeth and sometimes upper front teeth, depending on your bite.

With this retainer, be cautious when eating hard or sticky foods. Please call us right away if your wire gets damaged.

Nutrition tips

Avoid hard foods like popcorn, ice, boiled sweets, and hard crusts to protect brackets. Cut up meats, apples, and carrots before eating. Eat sensibly with braces.

To prevent elastic staining, avoid colorful foods/drinks like tomato-based foods, curries, coffee, and tea. Consume them before your visit for clear elastic replacements.

Risks

Orthodontic treatment using braces has numerous advantages, but it's crucial to be aware of potential complications. These complications include variations in treatment outcomes, the risk of teeth shifting back after braces are removed, root resorption, decalcification and cavities, gum problems, and the rare occurrence of ankylosis. Although these complications are rare, patients should be informed about the possibilities.

By closely collaborating with an orthodontist, maintaining good oral hygiene, and following retainer instructions, the risks can be minimized. Ultimately, having a thorough understanding of and addressing these potential complications will lead to a successful orthodontic treatment experience.

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