How Dentists Use Retainers to Keep Your Smile Perfect After Orthodontics
Braces or another orthodontic procedure to straighten teeth may have been the first step on your path to a flawless smile, but the process doesn’t stop when the braces are taken off. Retainers are essential in this situation. Understanding how important it is to take care of your dental appliances is essential to keeping that perfect smile. At a family dentist in Orange, CA, we’re more than simply experts in the field—we’re committed to ensuring your smile lasts a lifetime.
What happens after braces removal?
Your orthodontist will evaluate the treatment’s outcome to ensure everything is as it should be once your braces or Invisalign come off. Your straight smile is now prepared!
Treating your dental problems does not guarantee that your teeth will revert to their normal place, reversing the months and years of diligent work. This is because the pressure you apply when you eat, speak, or clench your teeth causes them to continue moving.
If you don’t have braces or aligners to counteract the pressure, your teeth will start to become misaligned once more. If this is not checked, you will probably require orthodontic treatment once more. Dental retainers are the answer!
Why Retainers?
The teeth have a propensity to return to their natural positions after taking off your braces, particularly in the initial months. In order to keep the top and lower teeth in place after treatment, orthodontists usually prescribe retainers, which are custom-fit devices. Wearing one guarantees that the time, energy, and money spent on teeth straightening won’t be wasted. To put it briefly, a retainer maintains your teeth in the proper alignment.
Retainers: preventing teeth movement after braces/aligners
To keep your smile straight post an orthodontic treatment, you must wear a retainer. For comfort and efficiency, your orthodontist will design a bespoke retainer that fits tightly over your teeth.
Wearing your retainer on a regular basis can help maintain straight teeth. Retainers prevent teeth from shifting, so consider them a safeguard for your investment! Your teeth will never become misaligned with retainers, and you can avoid the inconvenience and expense of further procedures.
Your orthodontist will suggest either a permanent or removable retainer based on your needs.
Types of Retainers
- Hawley Retainers: These retainers, recognizable by their acrylic frame and metal wire, are long-lasting and adjustable. Because they are detachable, you may remove them to brush and floss.
- Removable Retainers: These retainers are almost undetectable because they are made of clear acrylic and tailored to your teeth’s shape.
- Permanent Retainers: Permanent retainers, sometimes referred to as fixed or bonded retainers, are made of metal wire that is adhered to the back of your upper or lower teeth. They are especially helpful for people who might neglect to wear the retainer as directed.
The retainer must be worn constantly to stop teeth from moving, especially right after orthodontic treatment. Your orthodontist or dentist may eventually shorten the wear period.
Conclusion
Limiting your intake of crunchy, hard, and sticky foods in the initial months following orthodontic treatment is advised. These foods have the potential to interfere with the stabilization process and raise the likelihood of alignment changes. Until the retention plan is finished, it is advised to err on the side of caution and avoid things like popcorn, gum, taffy, and nuts. To determine when it will be safe to resume the pre-orthodontic diet, consult your dentist or orthodontist. Meanwhile, retainers can assist you!