Orthodontic treatment is an investment of your time and finances that doesn’t stop as soon as the braces come off or the last clear aligner is used. Regular use of a retainer is a vital part of every treatment plan, yet many patients underestimate the importance of this simple appliance. In truth, a retainer is the key to keeping a newly straightened smile in place. In fact, it’s often all that stands in the way of the teeth shifting back to their previous positions in the mouth! We’re here to tell you everything you need to know about retainers.
Here at New England Orthodontic Specialists, we’re proud to help patients of all ages achieve beautifully aligned smiles that last a lifetime. Whether you’re a current patient or considering orthodontics, it’s important to understand what retainers are and how they keep the teeth from shifting after the active phase of treatment is complete! To learn more about this essential orthodontic appliance, keep reading below.
What is a retainer?
A retainer is an orthodontic appliance that keeps teeth in their new positions following treatment. This helps patients avoid a phenomenon called “relapse,” which describes a natural tendency the teeth have to drift back to their original positions over time. We see relapses occur mainly in the late teens and early twenties, but they can happen at any time, even for those who have had orthodontic treatment.
This is because the teeth always remember their original places in the mouth. If there’s no pressure on them, they’ll begin shifting back towards those spaces. During the active phase of treatment, that pressure is accomplished with braces or clear aligners. Once this initial phase is complete, a retainer is needed to prevent the teeth from drifting to their previous positions.
Once patients have their braces removed or use the last clear aligner, they’ll be given a customized retainer for their post-treatment needs. This should always be worn as directed by the orthodontist. Failure to do so can undo all your hard-earned progress and may eventually require touch-up treatment. In severe cases, it may even be necessary to repeat the entire treatment process. This can happen faster than you might think, so be sure to stick with the guidelines you’re given along with your retainer.
Orthodontic treatment is an investment of your time and finances that doesn’t stop as soon as the braces come off or the last clear aligner is used. Regular use of a retainer is a vital part of every treatment plan, yet many patients underestimate the importance of this simple appliance. In truth, a retainer is the key to keeping a newly straightened smile in place. In fact, it’s often all that stands in the way of the teeth shifting back to their previous positions in the mouth!
Here at New England Orthodontic Specialists, we’re proud to help patients of all ages achieve beautifully aligned smiles that last a lifetime. Whether you’re a current patient or considering orthodontics, it’s important to understand what retainers are and how they keep the teeth from shifting after the active phase of treatment is complete! To learn more about this essential orthodontic appliance, keep reading below.
Trust New England Orthodontic Specialists for a lifetime of healthy smiles
Most orthodontic experts now agree that wearing some type of retainer indefinitely is the best way to keep the teeth in their newly straightened positions for years to come. While this recommendation can seem overwhelming at first, it’s likely to only be part-time, and retainers quickly just another part of your daily routine. To learn more about how our expert team can achieve amazing smiles from our Beverly, Salem, Topsfield and Hamilton offices, get in touch today to schedule a FREE consultation!
