Unlock Your Best Smile: Why Retention Matters in Your Orthodontic Journey
Here at Paul DiFranco Orthodontics, situated in the heart of Palos Hills, IL, we believe that everyone deserves a healthy, beautiful smile. However, reaching that perfect grin is only half the journey. The key to maintaining those straight teeth lies in a critical, yet often overlooked stage known as retention.
Understanding Retention and Its Importance
After your braces are removed or you reach the end of your Invisalign treatment, you aren’t done just yet. This is where retention comes in. The retention phase ensures your teeth maintain their new position after orthodontic treatment.
Without undertaking this crucial step, your teeth will naturally begin to drift back to their original position over time. This not only wastes the time and effort spent straightening your teeth in the first place but can also impact your oral health negatively.
How Can Patients Help Themselves During Retention?
At Paul DiFranco Orthodontics, we understand that our patients lead busy lives. Therefore, we want to make the retention phase as seamless and stress-free as possible. Below are a few things you, as a patient, can do to help:
Wear Your Retainer
Your retainer is custom-made to hold your teeth in their new position. While each patient’s needs are unique, it’s generally recommended to wear your retainer full-time for the first six months post-treatment and then nightly after that.
Maintain Good Oral Hygiene
Flossing and brushing regularly is even more relevant during this period, as retainers can be breeding grounds for bacteria. We recommend cleaning your retainer every time you brush your teeth.
Keep Up With Regular Check-ups
Regular visits to our office in Palos Hills, IL will provide us the opportunity to check your retainer’s fit and make any necessary adjustments. This is also an excellent time to address any questions or concerns you might have.
Remember, the retention phase is equally as essential as the treatment phase. By adhering to these suggestions, together, we can ensure that your journey towards a healthy, confidence-boosting smile is a lasting one.
