Retainers: What They Are and Why They're Important

After completing orthodontic treatment, whether it's with braces or clear aligners, you will need to wear a retainer to maintain the results. Retainers are essential for keeping your teeth in their new position and preventing them from shifting back to their original alignment. In this post, we will discuss the different types of retainers, how to care for them, and why they are crucial for maintaining a healthy and beautiful smile.

• Types of Retainers

There are two main types of retainers: removable and fixed.

Removable retainers are usually made of clear plastic and are custom-made to fit over your teeth. They are easy to take in and out, which makes them convenient to wear during meals or when brushing and flossing. Removable retainers need to be worn as directed by your orthodontist, usually around 12-22 hours a day, depending on your individual needs.

Fixed retainers, on the other hand, are cemented to the back of your teeth and are not visible from the front. They are typically made of a thin wire that is glued to the back of your teeth, and they are usually recommended for the lower front teeth, where the risk of shifting is the highest. Fixed retainers are meant to be worn indefinitely, and they require special care to maintain good oral hygiene.

• Caring for Your Retainers

Both removable and fixed retainers require special care to keep them in good condition and to prevent them from breaking or becoming damaged.

For removable retainers, you should brush them daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste. Avoid using hot water, as it can warp the plastic. When you're not wearing your retainer, store it in its case to prevent it from getting lost or damaged.

For fixed retainers, you should brush and floss them regularly, using a floss threader or interdental brush to clean between the wire and your teeth. Be gentle when brushing, and avoid using hard-bristled brushes, which can damage the wire. You should also avoid eating sticky or hard foods that can cause the wire to become loose or break.

• Why Retainers Are Important

Retainers are essential for maintaining the results of your orthodontic treatment. After your braces or clear aligners are removed, your teeth will naturally want to shift back to their original position. Wearing a retainer helps to prevent this from happening, and it allows your teeth to settle into their new position gradually.

Failing to wear your retainer as directed by your orthodontist can lead to relapse, which means that your teeth will start to shift back to their original position. This can undo all the progress you made during your orthodontic treatment and may require additional treatment to correct.

In addition to preventing relapse, wearing a retainer can also help with other dental issues, such as teeth grinding and jaw pain. Retainers can provide a protective barrier between your teeth and help to distribute pressure evenly, reducing the risk of damage and discomfort.

Conclusion

Retainers are an essential part of orthodontic treatment, and they play a vital role in maintaining a healthy and beautiful smile. Whether you have a removable or fixed retainer, it's essential to care for it properly to keep it in good condition and to prevent relapse. If you have any questions about retainers or orthodontic treatment, be sure to speak with your orthodontist.