Are you among the one million adults in North America with braces? If so, congratulations on taking steps to care for your oral health. You might be wondering what to expect at your dentist or orthodontist’s office when it’s time to remove your hardware. Caring for your teeth after braces is easy and well worth the time to protect your beautiful new smile. Here’s what you should know.

What You Should Expect After Braces

1. Painless Removal

Give yourself a pat on the back because the hard part is over. Your doctor will remove the brackets with special pliers. You might feel some pressure, but the process is painless. The doctor will then scrape and clean your teeth.

2. A Custom Retainer

After removal and cleaning, a mold will be taken of your teeth that will be used to create your new retainer. Retainers come in metal and plastic; some are removable, and others are permanently installed in your mouth. Talk to your orthodontist about which kind is right to maintain your dental alignment.  

3. Optional Teeth Whitening

Now that you’ve invested in a straighter smile, you might want to talk to your dentist about teeth whitening. In-office teeth whitening is a highly effective, quick way to increase your confidence and make your smile sparkle.  

4. Fluoride Rinse

Keep your teeth clean and cavity-free by regularly rinsing with a fluoride solution. Fluoride rinses strengthen your enamel, which protects your teeth from bacteria. Your dentist can apply fluoride to your teeth or recommend an over-the-counter or prescription rinse that you can use at home. 

Dr. Mike Olsen of the Dental Clinic of Onalaska in Wisconsin has been serving the Coulee region since 1993. Whether you’re seeking preventative care, dental restoration, or cosmetic dentistry, Dr. Olsen is the experienced family dentist you can trust with your oral health. Call the dental clinic today at (608) 783-3341, or request an appointment online today.