For individuals looking for orthodontic care in Puyallup, WA, Smiles Orthodontics provides exceptional service and expertise in both the first and second phases of treatment. The team at Smiles Orthodontics understands the importance of retainers in maintaining the results of orthodontic treatment. Not wearing a retainer as instructed can cause the teeth to shift back to their original position, reversing the progress made during treatment. At Smiles Orthodontics, patients can expect personalized care and guidance on proper retainer use to ensure a lasting, beautiful smile.

What are Retainers?

After treatment with braces or clear aligners, your teeth will be held in their new positions by retainers, which are specialized orthodontic appliances. Removable and fixed retainers are the two types. In most cases, removable retainers have been made of acrylic or clear plastic and are worn for a certain amount of hours each day. On the other hand, fixed retainers are small wires permanently connected to the backs of your teeth and remain in place all the time.

Why are retainers necessary?

Your teeth are gradually pushed into their new positions during orthodontic treatment. However, your teeth risk returning to their original positions once the braces or transparent aligners are removed. Your teeth’ bone support and ligaments haven’t adapted to their new positions. Retainers can be helpful in this case.

Your teeth are stabilized in new positions by retainers, giving the surrounding tissues time to adapt to their new alignment. Additionally, they help prevent shifting teeth put on by the natural forces of chewing and biting. Without retainers, your teeth will eventually return to their original positions, undergoing all of your dentist’s hard work of your orthodontic Treatment.

When the Braces Come Off Orthodontic Treatment Doesn’t Stop

After completing the treatment of braces in Puyallup WA, your orthodontist will fit you for another orthodontic device, your retainer. The name comes from its function: to retain the teeth in place and keep them from reverting to their old positions. Now that your smile is in alignment, we must give the bone and ligaments surrounding your teeth time to stabilize and keep your teeth in their new positions. That’s why you must wear a retainer after treatment to keep teeth from moving back to where they were before.

Types of Retainers

There are two types of retainers: removable and fixed.

Removable retainers come in clear or colored options. Acrylic retainers come in many different colors, which may make children more likely to wear them. Clear, overlay retainers are popular with older teens and adults who prefer a more discreet appearance. Though removable retainers are convenient, they must be stored when not in use to avoid loss or damage. Retainers need to be cleaned regularly.

Fixed retainers are thin wires that are permanently bonded to the backs of the teeth. They are sometimes called permanent retainers. Because they are worn 24 hours a day holding the teeth in exact alignment, they offer the best maintenance results. Of course, a fixed retainer requires the wearers to take greater care in cleaning between them when brushing their teeth.

What to Expect

Dr. Larson will give you instructions on exactly how often you should be wearing your retainer. A common timeline for retainer wear includes:

24-Hour Retainer Wear

When your braces first come off, you may be required to wear your retainer 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for the first several months (up to two years) after your braces come off. This is to make sure your smile is stabilized. Over time, most patients wear their retainers less and less—it’s not forever!

Nighttime Wear

Once the teeth have stabilized, you may be allowed to wear your retainer less, beginning with wearing your retainer every night. Eventually, you may be able to taper off to just a few nights per week. This will help prevent minor tooth movements and is the frequency you will maintain for life. If you notice a change in the way that your retainer fits, that is a sign that the teeth are shifting and intervention may be necessary. In most cases, simply wearing your retainer more often is enough to prevent relapse.

How often should I wear my retainer?

Your orthodontist’s recommendations and specific treatment plan will determine how frequently you should wear your retainer. Some patients might wear their retainers continuously for several months after treatment, while others may have to wear them at night. Your orthodontist will advise you on how frequently you should wear your retainer to achieve the best results.

How to Care for Your Retainer

Maintaining your retainer will maintain its effectiveness and longevity. Here are some suggestions to keep in mind:

Regularly clean your retainer:

Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and mild soap to clean your retainer daily. Avoid using hot water since it could break down your retainer.

Handle your retainer with care:

Be gentle when handling your retainer to prevent damage.

Store your retainer properly:

When you are not wearing it, store it in a clean case to protect it from damage and bacteria.

As instructed, wear your retainer:

Wear your retainer as prescribed by your orthodontist. This can involve wearing it continuously for a set period of time before gradually decreasing wear time.

Conclusion