It is a common misconception that orthodontic treatment ends when your braces are removed. However, braces and retainers work together, and skipping the second part can undo months of progress. Please read our article to learn why wearing retainers matters more than you think.
Why Wearing Retainers Matters More Than You Think
A retainer is a custom-made orthodontic appliance that most people need to wear after orthodontic treatment with braces or clear aligners. There are three main types of retainers:
- Clear plastic removable trays
- Removable acrylic retainer with a wire across the front teeth
- Fixed thin wire bonded to the back of the teeth
Finishing orthodontic treatment with braces or aligners does not mean your teeth are permanently stable in their new positions. They respond to pressure from chewing and tend to shift back to their original position.
Wearing a retainer helps keep your teeth in their new position and prevents them from moving back. Thus, a retainer helps you avoid losing the results, time, and money you invested in your orthodontic treatment.
Also, skipping wearing a retainer for a couple of nights might not cause a noticeable shift right away, but the small changes add up over time. If you are habitually undisciplined with wearing your retainer, your teeth are bound to move back. By the time you notice it, you might need an additional orthodontic treatment to fix the relapse.
How Long Do You Need to Wear a Retainer
Most people are advised to wear a retainer full-time (at least 22 hours a day) for 3 to 6 months after their orthodontic treatment. However, some people might need to wear a retainer full-time for longer, particularly if they had severe misalignment and tooth rotation before treatment. Also, adults typically have to wear a retainer full-time for longer than teenagers.
After the first phase of full-time retainer wear, you will gradually transition into wearing your retainer only at night. Some people wear a retainer at night for a couple of years or even indefinitely.
Is Wearing a Retainer Painful?
There might be a short adjustment period when your retainer can cause discomfort. However, once you get used to it, you are likely to stop noticing it, as a retainer does not actively move your teeth; it just keeps them in the desired position.
If you wear your retainer irregularly, you are likely to feel discomfort every time you put it back in your mouth. That is why strict discipline is important to help you get used to the retainer quickly.
How to Take Care of Your Retainer
Taking proper care of your retainer is essential to avoid oral health issues, such as cavities and gum disease. Removable retainers should be cleaned daily with lukewarm water and a soft toothbrush to prevent plaque and bacteria buildup and an unpleasant smell and taste in the mouth.
Additionally, to prevent damaging your retainer, avoid cleaning it with hot water and always take it out when eating. We recommend keeping your retainer in its container whenever you take it out. Also, do not forget to keep the container clean, too.
Get an Orthodontic Treatment at Santa Ana Magic Smile
If you are considering an orthodontic treatment, do not hesitate to make an appointment with a reliable dentist at Santa Ana Magic Smile today. Our specialists offer you an orthodontic solution that best accommodates your orthodontic issues and your needs and preferences. We are looking forward to your visit.
