If your child is like most kids, having their braces removed is a joyous occasion. Saying goodbye to the metal brackets and wires or even clear aligners allows them to revel in the look of their new smile. After spending years undergoing treatment, they may wonder what’s next. A board-certified orthodontist is here to explain what generally happens after a child or teenager completes treatment and what life will be like after braces.
Is There Another Phase of Treatment After Braces?
Yes. Once your child’s braces come off, they will enter into what is known as the retention phase. This requires that they wear a customized retainer that will help keep their teeth in their new location.
It takes time for their teeth, bones, and gums to adjust to the new area inside the mouth. Without something to help hold them in place, they will begin to shift back into their original position.
With a retainer, your child will be expected to wear it full-time in the beginning; however, as time passes, their orthodontist may suggest only wearing it at night. This is a lifelong commitment that your child will need to understand and agree to when starting treatment.
Are There Different Types of Retainers?
When discussing the retention phase of orthodontic treatment, you and your child will learn about the different types of retainers that are commonly used. Depending on their needs, the orthodontist may suggest a fixed one that is bonded to the back of your child’s teeth, a removable retainer, or one of each.
Each retainer is customized to the individual’s teeth, so you can expect an impression to be taken of your child’s mouth in the days leading up to the removal of their braces. This will ensure that the retainer is ready on time.
What Will Life Be Like After Braces?
Apart from your child being required to wear a retainer, other adjustments will be necessary after having their braces removed. These include:
- Minor sensitivity – If metal brackets and wires were worn, there’s a chance that some slight sensitivity will occur for a short amount of time.
- Eating certain foods – Wearing braces for a year or more will cause you to experience a different feeling when eating certain foods after they come off. You may find that eating an apple or corn on the cob doesn’t require the timely preparation it once did.
- Slight discoloration – Often found among those who wore metal braces, tooth discoloration can occur; however, many dentists offer teeth whitening to teens if the issue is enough to cause embarrassment.
One major difference your child can expect is the look of their smile. Equipped with straighter teeth that allow for better oral health, you will notice they exude more confidence than before, making life after braces truly enjoyable.
About the Author
Dr. Melissa Bailey is a board-certified orthodontist who completed her dental degree at UCLA before undergoing advanced training in orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics at Loma Linda University in Southern California. As part of the team at Gale Ranch Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, she is pleased to help young patients achieve straighter smiles with an array of orthodontic options ranging from traditional braces to clear aligners and more. Contact us at (925) 648-8580 or visit our website if your child is preparing to enter into the retention phase of treatment and needs help.