Orthodontic treatments are absolutely wonderful for your oral health and the appearance of your smile! Most people are anxious to finish their treatment as quickly as possible. They count down the days in anticipation until they are finally ready to have their braces removed and see their brilliant new smile. Here’s how to ensure that you this day comes as quickly as possible.

Always Wear Your Rubber Bands 

Rubber bands are a vital part of your orthodontic treatment. Braces are amazing at shifting your teeth into their proper positions within the gum line. However, they make no impact whatsoever on your jaw alignment. This is what rubber bands are for. Of course, rubber bands take a bit of time to get used to and can be painful at first, which makes it tempting for people to take them off at every opportunity. If you are like most people and want your treatment to go as quickly as possible, faithfully wear your rubber bands. Frequently removing your rubber bands can seriously prolong your orthodontic treatment, so don’t do it!

Don’t Take Invisalign Breaks

One of the benefits of Invisalign as opposed to braces is that you can take them off. This allows you to get better dental care, clean your teeth more effectively, and eat whatever foods you want. However, this benefit can be a downside as well. The fact that you can take your aligners off makes it incredibly tempting to do just that. However, you need to remember that the discomfort you may feel when wearing them means that they are working the way they are supposed to! If you want your treatment to be over quickly, resist the temptation to remove your aligners other than at meals and while brushing.

Wear Your Retainer!

While braces and Invisalign can help shift your teeth into proper alignment, your teeth are going to need some help staying in place once these are removed. That is why it is so important that wear your retainer as directed by your orthodontist. Forgetting to wear your retainer can allow your teeth to begin to shift back to their original positions. If you forget too often, this shift can cause your retainer to become uncomfortable when you start remembering to use it again. If the shift is severe you may need to get braces or Invisalign again! So, make sure that you wear your retainer every day to ensure you maintain your dazzling new smile!

By following these tips and any other instructions given by your orthodontist, you are putting your teeth in the best position to achieve their proper position quickly! Just remember that the discomfort is only temporary, and the reward of a happy and healthy smile is well worth the price! If you’re afraid you’ll forget, set yourself a reminder on your phone!

Are you ready for braces or looking for an orthodontist to care for your teeth during the retention phase? Look no further than Sonneveld Orthodontics! Click here to learn more!