3 Tips to Improve the Effects of Orthodontic Treatment

Orthodontists help their patients to achieve beautiful, straight smiles, but the effects of their treatments do not always last. After spending many months and a large amount of money on orthodontic treatments, it can be extremely disappointing to see teeth drift out of alignment after the treatment ends. These three tips can help you to keep your teeth straighter after your braces or clear aligners come off.

1. Attend Regular Checkups

The best way to ensure your orthodontic treatment produces results that last is to visit your dentist or orthodontist regularly. During a checkup, your dentist can ensure that your teeth are not shifting back into their old misaligned positions. If they show signs of moving, the dentist can refer you to an orthodontist, who can give you a retainer to prevent the effects of your orthodontic treatment from being reversed.

During a dental checkup, dentists also check for symptoms of gum disease. Diseased gums cannot hold teeth firmly in place like healthy gums can, so it is very important to get early diagnosis and treatment for gum disease.

2. Pay Attention to Dental Hygiene

A good way to avoid getting gum disease is to pay close attention to your daily oral hygiene routine. Brushing thoroughly removes plaque from the surfaces of teeth, while flossing removes plaque from the tiny spaces between teeth that do your toothbrush cannot effectively clean. By removing this bacteria-rich plaque, you can reduce your risk of developing gum disease and therefore help to keep your gums healthy. By keeping your gums healthy, you can help them to support your teeth to maintain their new positions.

3. Wear a Retainer if Your Orthodontist Provides One

Many orthodontists give their patients retainers when they remove their fixed braces at the end of the treatment period. If your orthodontist gives you a retainer, pay close attention to the instructions for wearing it. Some people need to wear retainers all the time, except when they eat meals, while others only need to wear the retainer at night to prevent their teeth from migrating back to their original positions.

Your orthodontist will explain the schedule of wear that is the most appropriate for you, so be sure to listen carefully to their instructions. Take notes during the appointment so you will know exactly how many hours a day you need to wear your retainer to preserve the effects of your orthodontic treatment.

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