Finishing your orthodontic treatment is a big deal! One of the first questions that patients ask us after completing treatment is about the number of orthodontic appointments after braces they will need.
We are always happy to answer patient questions. You’ll need to come in for a few appointments over the course of 6 months to a year to verify that your retainers are effectively holding your orthodontic correction. After that time is over, you can visit us as needed. This could be for replacing lost or broken retainers, resizing your retainer to account for new restorations, or answering any questions you may have about retention.
Learn more about why orthodontist appointments after braces are one of the most vital parts of your treatment.
Nothing beats the confidence you feel after completing treatment. You’ve worked hard to achieve a brilliant smile and deserve to feel good about your progress.
However, the ligaments and tissues in your mouth have a “memory” and tend to push/pull your teeth back to their last position. Because of this, teeth have a natural desire to drift back to their previous alignment.
Keeping your smile looking its best requires retainers. We engineer customized fixed and removable retainers to preserve your smile and help your teeth stay in their optimal, healthy position.
Wearing your retainer is particularly important during the initial 3-6 months after your complete treatment, when your teeth are still in a vulnerable state and most likely to shift back toward their previous positions. You’ll want to wear your retainer full-time during this period, but you can shift to wearing it only at nights once Dr. Koen gives you clearance.
In a nutshell, retainers help ensure that all your hard work is protected. After all, a lot of time, money, and effort went into your braces treatment, and you don’t want to move backwards in terms of progress.
These lightweight appliances are easy to use and essential for preserving your beautiful new smile and protecting your family’s financial investment.
No two patients are the same — and everyone has a unique smile. Typically, you may have 4-6 check-ups during the year following treatment. Once you’ve completed your first year without braces, you will come in as needed.
Rest assured, any appointments you need will be quick check-ins where our team sees how you’re doing and ensures that your retainers are fitting correctly and preventing your teeth from drifting out of place.
So, how many orthodontic appointments after braces are necessary? The answer will depend on your needs.
Our terrific team will be able to give you an exact answer at the end of your treatment. Remember: these appointments are crucial for helping you keep your dazzling results.
There are so many reasons to celebrate the removal of your braces. It means not only have you kept your braces clean, but you’ve also avoided some of your favorite foods throughout treatment. You should never take this milestone lightly!
However, it does not mean you have finished taking care of your orthodontic needs.
By wearing your retainer, you help lock in your amazing results and guarantee that you enjoy the fruits of your hard work. Continuing your treatment with a retainer maintains the integrity of your new smile.
At Mary Cay Koen Orthodontics, we partner throughout every step of your treatment, from your initial consultation to your retainer appointments. We’ve provided start-to-finish smile transformations for kids, teens, and adults throughout Goodlettsville, TN.
Get started now by scheduling your free consultation with Mary Cay Koen and her terrific team.