Congratulations on completing your orthodontic treatment and bidding farewell to your braces! After months (or even years) of treatment, you’re free to enjoy your newly aligned smile. But what happens next? After having braces for so long, will it be weird to continue without them? Read on to explore the most important aspects of your braces-free life.
Your Retainer Is Your New Best Friend
While your braces have straightened your teeth, your treatment isn’t really “over.” It’s simply gone into the maintenance phase. From now on, you’ll need to regularly wear your retainer to keep your smile in its new alignment. This is because your teeth will naturally try to slide back to where they were before your treatment began.
What Life After Braces Looks Like
Life after braces may feel like a breath of fresh air. You won’t have to deal with the discomfort of brackets and wires or worry about food getting stuck in them. You’ll enjoy the freedom to indulge in all your favorite foods without restrictions. It may seem like a simple thing, but after you take your first bite, you’ll understand.
However, there will also be some initial strangeness to work out. Your teeth may feel a bit weird at first without the presence of braces. You may experience some sensitivity as your teeth adjust to their new positions. Be patient with yourself during this transition period and continue to practice good oral hygiene habits.
Enjoy Your New Confidence
Beyond the physical benefits of orthodontic treatment, achieving a straight smile can also afford you some new attention. Your friends, co-workers, and family may look at you more often as they adjust to your new smile as well. Don’t panic! Smile back and embrace your newfound confidence. You may find that in doing so, you’ll start to feel more relaxed and energetic—especially in social situations.
Life after braces is an exciting time where it feels like the possibilities are endless. With proper care and maintenance, your stunning new smile will continue to turn heads and keep you on top of your game for years to come!
About the Author
Dr. Dalia Georgy has been improving her patients’ smiles for decades and loves seeing them light up when they see their results. She earned her dental doctorate from the University of Oklahoma and then began her advanced training in orthodontics, securing hundreds of hours in Invisalign, traditional braces, and Myobrace treatments. Call (918) 201-1414 to schedule an orthodontic consultation at Glenpool Braces or visit the website to explore other services.