You finally got your braces off! The freedom of not having braces is splendid and something that you have not felt in a while. However, now the dentist tells you that you will have to wear a retainer. You feel your teeth, and they feel smooth and straight. Is this necessary? The dentist goes on to tell you that throughout your life your teeth are supported by your gums. The gums will shift throughout your lifetime, so it is important that you wear a retainer for the recommended time in order to stop them from shifting back to how they were.
On average, it is recommended that you wear a retainer for around three to six months throughout the day and night. However, at the end of the three to six months, it is then recommended that you wear the retainer at night for a full year. There are some dentists who recommend that you wear your retainer for at least as long as you have worn braces. This not only ensures that your teeth won’t shift back, but also that there will be no need for braces again in the future.
There are many dental clinics spread throughout the Toronto area. If you are looking for a company that offers high-end retainers and Invisalign braces in Toronto, then you should check out the dental centers in your area. There are some dental centers that even offer a Retainer for Life Program. All that you will need in order to get free retainers for life is to continue going for scheduled dental checkups and the cleanings. A retainer helps to protect the investment of time and money that went into your braces, so be sure to protect that investment by wearing your retainer.
Others may be suffering from bad breath as a result of not taking care of your teeth, especially when you have braces. Once you have an idea of what is causing your chronic bad breath, there are steps you can take for a fresher mouth. Make sure you brush and floss your teeth at least twice a day. It is important to scrape your tongue as well. Tongue scraping will get rid of odor causing bacteria. Some toothbrushes have a tongue scraper on them, or you can purchase one at your local drug store. Drinking plenty of water will prevent dry mouth, leading to fresher breath. Changing your diet can also be helpful. Aside from limiting obvious offenders such as garlic there are foods you can eat which will actually help freshen your breath, such as parsley or cranberries. If you are on a low-carb diet, consider introducing some healthier carbohydrates into your daily routine, such as whole grains and fruit. By working with your cosmetic or routine dentist, you can ensure that your teeth look good and you maintain good oral health for years to come.