Why Dental Checkups Are Important After Orthodontic Treatment

Getting braces is an exciting experience for many people who have dreamed of getting a straight smile. However, just because your invisalign Cary, NC treatment has been completed, that does not mean you do not need to visit your dentist anymore. Cary dentists recommend scheduling regular visits after getting braces to ensure your gums and teeth stay healthy. 

Many people believe that once their braces come off, that is the end of their orthodontic issues. But this is not true. The way teeth are lined up is just one part of good oral health. After braces or aligners are taken off, your teeth may still need to be watched closely. This is important because your dentist needs to make sure they do not move or shift from their places. 

“Relapse” is quite common after braces are taken off, and you do not want to let your money go to waste. These visits are also important to keep an eye on your oral health. Things like plaque buildup or gingivitis can cause serious issues if not treated. If you just finished with braces in Cary, make a dental appointment immediately. 

Why you should visit your dentist after orthodontic treatment

1. Checking your retainer fit.

Retainers keep your teeth from moving back after braces. The first few months after braces are especially critical because teeth are still settling into place. Regular dental checkups are needed to make sure the retainer fits well and keeps teeth aligned. 

Dentists check the retainer for wear or damage, as over time, it can lose effectiveness. If repairs or adjustments are needed, they can fix it early to prevent teeth from shifting. This ensures the retainer and orthodontic results last longer.

1. Keeping your enamel healthy.

During orthodontic treatment, patients may experience enamel damage from plaque buildup around braces or aligners. This can cause white spots on the teeth, affecting their appearance. 

Regular dental checkups allow professionals to clean off plaque and tartar. 

Dentists can also apply treatments like fluoride or calcium to help restore and strengthen the enamel. This not only improves your oral health but also helps reduce the cosmetic effects of enamel damage caused by orthodontic treatment.

1. Looking after your gums.

Orthodontic appliances can make it harder to clean around your teeth. This can increase the risk of gum disease, so regular dental checkups are necessary. During these visits, dental professionals can check for early signs of gum problems. 

If issues like inflammation or gingivitis are found, they can offer treatments and advice on better oral hygiene practices. This helps improve gum health and prevent more serious problems.

1. Making sure your bite is correct.

After braces are removed, patients may still have bite problems, like overbites or underbites. Regular dental checkups allow dentists to monitor the bite and suggest any needed adjustments. It is important to address these small changes to avoid bigger and more expensive treatments later. 

1. Avoiding cavities after braces.

After orthodontic treatment, the risk of cavities can increase because plaque may remain around braces or aligners. Regular dental checkups are important for detecting cavities early before they cause bigger problems. 

Your dentist can offer fluoride treatments to help strengthen your enamel and protect your teeth from cavities. Regular visits also make sure that any leftover decay is removed promptly. 

1. Getting advice for long-term care.

After orthodontic treatment, you need to create a long-term plan for your oral health. During dental checkups, your dentist can give you advice on how to take care of your teeth. This guidance helps both children and adults maintain good oral hygiene. 

Completed your Invisalign in Cary?

If you have recently completed your orthodontic treatment, do not make the mistake of neglecting your post-treatment care. It is important to visit your dentist for check-ups regularly. Contact your dentist today for personalized advice!