Retainers and stable resultsQuestion after the braces come off

Should I put anything on my teeth after my braces come off?

Answered byDr Ivelina Ivanova-Koycheva, Orthodontist (MSc)Master's degrees in orthodontics in Rome and in aligner treatment in Turin, international lecturerPublished on 12 November 2026

Removing braces, or removing the attachments used with aligners, makes the teeth temporarily more sensitive. This sensitivity is expected to settle gradually over a few weeks. Any oral hygiene products with a high fluoride content reduce tooth sensitivity and help shorten this period. You can use an orthodontic mouthwash, a toothpaste for sensitive teeth or an enamel-remineralising toothpaste. Your orthodontist may also recommend, or give you, a special fluoride gel to apply to your teeth to reduce sensitivity. On top of that, keeping your teeth and gums perfectly clean will help any irritated gums settle down more quickly.

This answer is for general information. Your own case needs an examination by an orthodontist.