Keep your Perfect Smile
You’ve finally reached the end of your orthodontic journey. Your teeth are straight, your smile is perfect, and you couldn’t be happier. But don’t ditch your retainer just yet! Here’s why it’s so important to wear a retainer after orthodontic treatment
What Is a Retainer?
A retainer is a custom-made oral appliance that helps to maintain the position of your teeth after braces have been removed. It consists of two parts: the wire, which goes around your teeth, and the acrylic, which sits behind your teeth and gums. There are different types of retainers, but the most common is the Hawley retainer.
Why Is It So Important to Wear a Retainer?
Wearing a retainer is crucial for two reasons: to prevent your teeth from moving back to their original position and to allow your gums and bones to adapt to their new position. After having braces for an extended period of time, your teeth will have been moved from their natural position. Wearing a retainer helps to hold them in place so that they don’t slowly start moving back.
Additionally, it can take some time for your gums and bones to adapt to the new position of your teeth. By wearing a retainer, you’re giving them the chance to properly adjust.
Not wearing a retainer can cause all sorts of problems down the road, like relapsing (when your teeth start moving back), gum disease, and tooth misalignment. Wearing a retainer may not be the most fun thing in the world, but it’s definitely worth it in the long run!
>Conclusion
Be sure to follow your orthodontist’s instructions on how often to wear your retainer ( typically it’s full-time for several months following treatment then part-time at night indefinitely). And if you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to give us a call! We’re always happy to help.
