Braces are essential! As awkward as they can be, it’s best that your child or teen straighten out their teeth sooner rather than later. But, what you really want to look out for are the common mistakes that they often make after finally getting them removed.
Neglecting Dental Health
Braces are to make your teeth more straight, symmetrical, and functional. But what is the benefit of a symmetrical set of teeth if they’re yellowing, rotting, or on the verge of falling out? Always make sure that your teens understand the importance of basic dental hygiene.
Neglecting your teeth after putting in so much effort and going through all of the inconveniences of braces would be a big waste of money, time, and stress. Make sure that they are flossing and brushing twice a day. Avoid super sugary foods and drinks. See a dentist regularly to avoid issues like gingivitis and cavities early on.
Not Wearing a Retainer
This is another way to quickly waste all of the money, time, and effort that was spent on braces. Finally, after years of having to deal with corrective gear, your teen gets their braces off–with the small caveat that they have to wear a retainer for a few years. Don’t let them neglect this step!
If they don’t wear their retainer according to the orthodontist’s instructions, it could result in undoing all of the work they just put in. Wearing a retainer helps keep your teeth from shifting back out of alignment. You need to keep it in until your teeth have settled and will not move.
Not Going Back to Get It Checked
Your teen’s orthodontist is the best person to consult about all issues relating to this process. Your teen might be embarrassed if they’ve neglected their dental hygiene or some of the orthodontist’s instructions. Some teens may try and wear their retainer again after removing it for a long period of time, which probably will not work because their teeth will have shifted. Encourage your child to proverbially bite the bullet and do what needs to be done–even if that means more dental work, more braces, or a new retainer.
Regardless of what stage of the recovery process your teenager is in, you’re going to want regular dental check-ups. Communicate with your teen about their current dental hygiene habits. If you’re educated on what you both need to do to make the whole procedure as smooth as possible, there’s no reason to be worried.
Here’s more: How Your Life Changes After Braces