After Care
Orthodontic treatment does not stop when you leave our office. Proper after care is essential to keeping your treatment on track, protecting your appliances, and ensuring your final results are everything you expect.
Below you’ll find important instructions and helpful tips for braces, Invisalign, expanders, retainers, and more. If you ever have questions or concerns, our team is always here to help.
Caring For Your Braces
The first several days after braces are placed or adjusted can feel uncomfortable. This soreness is normal and means your teeth are beginning to move. Stick to softer foods during this time and use orthodontic wax if any brackets feel irritating. Good brushing and flossing are critical while wearing braces to prevent plaque buildup around brackets and wires. Avoid sticky, hard, or crunchy foods that could damage your braces.
Lingual Braces Instructions
Lingual braces are placed behind your teeth, so it is important to take a few minutes after each adjustment to check for any irritation. Before leaving the chair, stand up, swallow, and gently feel each bracket with your tongue to identify any rough spots. Wax can be used as needed. Speaking and tongue placement may feel different at first, but most patients adjust quickly.
Sports Mouthguards For Braces
If you play sports, protecting your teeth and braces is essential. Dr. B recommends ShockDoctor mouthguards, particularly the Ultra Braces model. These are available at most sporting goods stores. Wearing a mouthguard during contact sports helps prevent broken brackets, dental injuries, and unnecessary treatment delays.
How To Care For Invisalign Trays
It is important to wear your Invisalign aligners at least 22 hours per day. Remove them only for eating, brushing, and drinking anything other than water. Clean your trays daily using a soft toothbrush and mild soap or Invisalign cleaning crystals. Always store aligners in their case when not in use and keep them away from heat.
Removable Retainers
Wear your retainer exactly as instructed by Dr. Bonavoglia. Most patients are initially instructed to wear retainers full-time, removing them only to eat and brush. Keep retainers clean and stored in their case when not in use. Retainers are essential for maintaining your results and preventing teeth from shifting back.
Playing Instruments With Braces
If you play the trumpet or other wind instruments, you may need a short adjustment period after getting braces. If you experience discomfort, products like Brace Guard can help cushion brackets while playing. With time and practice, most musicians adapt successfully without long-term issues.
Expander Instructions
Dr. Bonavoglia will provide specific instructions on how and when to turn your expander. Follow the schedule exactly as directed. Some pressure is normal after turning the appliance. Keep the expander clean by brushing carefully around it. If the appliance feels loose or causes unusual discomfort, contact our office.
Caring For Bonded Retainers
Bonded retainers are placed behind the teeth to prevent shifting. They are often used when there is a strong tendency for teeth to move back to their original position. Keep the wire clean with careful brushing and flossing. If the retainer feels loose or bends, call our office promptly to prevent unwanted tooth movement.
Invisalign
Invisalign treatment requires consistency. Wear aligners as prescribed and switch to new sets according to your schedule. Keep aligners clean and bring them to every appointment. Missing wear time can delay progress, so commitment is key to achieving your best smile.