Are Retainers Really Necessary After Orthodontic Treatment?

retainers Pembroke Pines, FL

Generally, a retainer is the last vital stage of orthodontic treatment. The appliance, made from metal and plastic, is personalized for each patient to fit perfectly into the wearer’s mouth. After braces or other orthodontic devices have corrected the alignment of the teeth, the retainer functions to stop them from shifting back to their previous positions. If you are due to have your braces removed, it would be helpful to learn about this device, especially the important role it serves in orthodontic treatment.

What to know about retainers

Types of retainers

Retainers can be permanent or removable. Removable retainers can be taken out when eating and have to be worn for at least a year after the braces are taken off. The permanent or fixed retainers are bonded almost permanently to the teeth and can only be taken off by an orthodontist. This type usually has to be worn for several years.

The importance of retainers

Retainers serve the role of aligning the gum and bone tissues with the corrected dentition achieved with braces. This process can take much longer to finish than the process of aligning the bite itself. In some cases, it could take several months or years for the gum and bone tissues to fully stabilize in their current position.

With a corrected bite, your teeth can shift gradually every day. Although the teeth’s ability to move is the reason orthodontic treatment works, it can also reverse the corrections made by the orthodontic appliance. The orthodontist will determine precisely when and how long you would need retainers, but in most situations, you would need to wear them constantly between meals and while sleeping for a minimum of one month after teeth alignment is complete. The only way to ensure your smile stays aligned and stable is by faithfully wearing retainers.

That is not all…

Aside from keeping the teeth straight, wearing a retainer has other unique benefits. An aligned bite makes your teeth fully functional for speech and eating. Also, diabetic patients can prevent oral issues by wearing a retainer to keep their teeth straight. Crooked or misaligned teeth tend to develop cavities and decay.

For most parents, the hardest part of orthodontic treatment is making sure that their child uses the retainers correctly and does not lose them in school or while playing. You can help them remember the appliance by storing it in a bright case when they are leaving for school. Also, storing the case in the same place can help make it a routine.

Final note

Your oral hygiene regimen must include maintaining retainers. When you are not wearing removable retainers, ensure you store them in a vinegar and water solution or denture cleaner. The retainers must be stored in liquid because the plastic can crack if it becomes dry. If you have a removable device, you need to keep up with your routine dental appointments to prevent plaque or decay from building around the retainer.

If you have braces or require orthodontic treatment, contact a dentist for a consultation. Remember, retainers are the only way to keep your teeth aligned, which means they are necessary after orthodontic correction.

Request an appointment here: https://www.getorthosmiles.com or call Ortho Smiles at (954) 271-8073 for an appointment in our Pembroke Pines office.

Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.

Recent Posts

Guide To Your First Orthodontist Visit

Discovering you need orthodontic care does not have to be a worrisome situation. The orthodontist will help you the whole way, and the staff will guide you on any concerns, ranging from financing to maintenance. If you have booked an appointment with an orthodontist, this piece provides a guide on what to expect and questions…

What Are The Types Of Early Orthodontic Treatments?

Most parents are familiar with traditional orthodontic treatment that usually starts when a child hits adolescence. Typically, orthodontics are needed to correct gaps, bite issues or crowding issues. However, in some cases, early orthodontic treatment may be needed. Early orthodontic treatment is not limited to one type. Each child has varying needs that serve as the…

Reasons To Consider Clear Braces For Teens

We all want our children to have straight, healthy teeth; clear braces for teens (or invisible braces) for teens are an excellent solution compared to traditional braces. Thankfully, modern dentistry has made major improvements in braces technology that makes them more effective and more comfortable, and invisible. Now there’s no longer a need to worry…

A Step By Step Guide To Getting Your Wisdom Teeth Removed

Wisdom teeth removal is one of the most common oral surgeries, but it still makes many nervous. However, many patients find that knowing what to expect from the process helps ease nerves. This article offers a step-by-step look at the process to make the procedure seem less intimidating. In addition, we will examine the potential…

Recent Posts

Guide To Your First Orthodontist Visit

Guide To Your First Orthodontist Visit

Discovering you need orthodontic care does not have to be a worrisome situation. The orthodontist will help you the whole way, and the staff will guide you on any concerns, ranging from financing to maintenance. If you have booked an appointment with an orthodontist, this piece provides a guide on what to expect and questions…

What Are The Types Of Early Orthodontic Treatments?

What Are The Types Of Early Orthodontic Treatments?

Most parents are familiar with traditional orthodontic treatment that usually starts when a child hits adolescence. Typically, orthodontics are needed to correct gaps, bite issues or crowding issues. However, in some cases, early orthodontic treatment may be needed. Early orthodontic treatment is not limited to one type. Each child has varying needs that serve as the…

Dr. Cozzarelli is a Member of AAO, ADA, and FDA:

Member of American Association of Orthodontists Member of American Dental Association Member of Florida Dental Association