It is common for patients to have braces for 18 months or longer. Throughout the duration of your treatment, they may have come to feel like a normal, natural extension of your body — it might seem a little strange when they are finally removed! What might you experience as you adjust to life after braces in Hamden? Here is an overview of what you can expect:
How Your Mouth Will Look and Feel
The process of braces removal is usually quick and comfortable. Afterward, you are likely to notice that your mouth does not look or feel the way it did prior to your treatment. That is most a good thing — your teeth should be straighter and healthier now! However, there might be a few issues that you did not previously think about, such as:
- Sensitivity. It is common for patients to notice an increase in dental sensitivity after they get their braces off. This can occur because your teeth were under consistent pressure for months on end. Releasing that pressure may make you extra sensitive to hot, cold, and acidic foods. This issue is usually temporary.
- Discoloration. Some patches of uneven coloration may be present on your teeth. This might be the result of bacterial and food accumulation around the braces’ brackets. You probably have nothing to worry about. Most patients find that any discoloration fades as they get back into a normal brushing and flossing routine. Six months or so after your braces are removed, you may choose to undergo a professional whitening treatment.
- Calluses. Braces can cause some calluses on the soft tissues inside your cheeks and lips. When your orthodontic treatment concludes, those areas might feel strange. Thankfully, any rough patches should disappear over time.
Maintaining Your Results
After your braces are removed, you must move onto the maintenance phase of your treatment. A retainer in Hamden is a small device that can prevent your teeth from drifting back into their former positions. If yours is removable, you should wear it for 20 – 22 hours each day at first. Eventually, you may be able to wear it only at night.
It can take some time to adjust to a new routine with your retainer. Your dentist will provide instructions on how you can keep it clean and ensure that it lasts as long as possible.
Feel Free to Ask Questions
If you have any questions or encounter any concerns while you are adapting to life after braces, get in touch with your dental team. They will be happy to guide you as you move into this new stage of your oral health journey. They want your smile to be as comfortable and healthy as possible!
Meet the Practice
The team of experts at New Haven Dental Group in Hamden is pleased to offer both braces and clear aligners in a welcoming and comfortable environment. If you have questions about what to expect during any phase of orthodontic treatment, we would be pleased to assist you. Contact us at 203-587-7327.