Now that your braces have brought your teeth into their correct alignment, Dr. John Fleming can remove the orthodontic hardware from your mouth. However, this is not the end of the process. There will still be a mild amount of tension remaining in your dental sockets. If it’s not countered in some way it could cause your teeth to gradually relapse out of position.
To prevent this from happening, Dr. John Fleming will fit you for a retainer. Hawley retainers are the most common solution for holding upper teeth in position. If one area needed realignment, Dr. John Fleming might also recommend installing a fixed retainer.
This firm metal band, Dr. John Fleming can cement behind the teeth with a strong dental adhesive. Since it cannot be removed, the fixed retainer will require special focus in your daily oral hygiene routine.
Interdental brushes have small narrow heads can help to remove plaque and food residue from minute contours around the fixed retainer. You might also want to try using a floss threader with waxed dental floss to floss to clean between teeth and into the gumline.
An oral irrigator like Waterpik® can help clear away stuck on food particles in the contours of your teeth. Just keep in mind that this device cannot match the effectiveness of dental floss for physically removing material.
If you are due to have Dr. John Fleming remove your braces at his Alpharetta, Georgia orthodontic clinic and you have a question about retainers, you can always call 770-901-2433 to speak to a member of Quality Orthodontic Care.