Need to get your smile back after not wearing your retainer? At New England Orthodontic Specialists, Dr. Diana and Dr. Neil are here to help you reclaim your remarkable smile! We have Beverly, Lynn, Salem, South Hamilton, and Topsfield offices. More locations mean it’s easier to keep up with your orthodontic care. You’re about to learn more about what retainers are and why they matter. If you’ve fallen out of the habit of wearing yours, you’ll also figure out what to do about it.
What is a Retainer?
If you weren’t aware, a retainer is a custom-made orthodontic device. We’ll design yours to keep your teeth in place after treatment, such as braces or clear aligners. Your retainer’s main purpose is to maintain your teeth’s new position by preventing them from shifting back to their original spots.
Removable Retainers
Removable retainers are custom-fitted appliances you can remove whenever you need to. They are usually made of plastic and metal. Our New England Orthodontic Specialists team recommends that you wear your removable retainers every night. The big advantage of removable retainers is how easy they are to clean. You must remember to wear them regularly to keep your teeth from shifting.
Consequences of Not Wearing Your Retainer
If you’re reading a blog about retainers, you might have stopped using yours. As you probably know, there are consequences to not wearing your retainer.
What is Relapse?
Relapse is when your teeth gradually move back to their original positions after orthodontic treatment. What causes it? After treatment, the tissues and bones around your teeth need time to stabilize in their new positions. Without the support of a retainer, your teeth can shift, undoing all the progress made with braces or aligners. Regular retainer use helps prevent relapse, keeping your smile straight and aligned.
Crooked Teeth
When teeth shift back, they can become crooked again (likely part of the reason you sought treatment to begin with!). In addition to the way they look, crooked teeth are harder to clean. Improper cleaning leads to plaque accumulation and an increased risk of cavities (noticing a pattern?). Proper alignment makes brushing and flossing easier, and it helps maintain your overall oral health.
Bite Issues
Shifting teeth can cause bite problems, such as overbite, underbite, or crossbite. These issues can affect how you chew and speak. A misaligned bite (“malocclusion”) can also lead to jaw pain and discomfort. Wearing your retainer helps keep your bite in its corrected position, ensuring comfort and functionality.
Increased Risk of Dental Problems
Misaligned teeth can create areas that are hard to clean. Remember what we learned about that? That’s right! Plaque and tartar buildup (eek!). This increases the risk of cavities and gum disease. Regular retainer use keeps teeth in their proper positions. Sounds great, right? But what’s the benefit? Your hygiene will be a lot easier.
Steps to Take If You Haven’t Worn Your Retainer
The first step is to schedule an appointment with Dr. Diana or Dr. Neil at New England Orthodontic Specialists. Our team will assess how much your teeth have moved and determine your best course of action. Early detection can help minimize the need for extensive treatment. We offer many affordable, quick and convenient options to make you smile!
Assessment of Teeth Shifting
During your appointment, our team will examine your teeth to see the extent of the movement. We might take new X-rays or impressions to get a clear picture. Our assessment helps us create a plan to get your smile back on track.
Consistent Retainer Use
You must wear your retainer consistently once your teeth are back in place. Follow the instructions given by the doctors to avoid future relapses. Establishing a routine for retainer use will help maintain your straight smile for years to come.
Tips for Consistent Retainer Use
Got a new retainer from our team at New England Orthodontic Specialists? Great! Here are some tips for consistent retainer use.
Set a Routine
Make wearing your retainer part of your daily habits. Put it in at the same time each day, such as before bed. This habit ensures you don’t forget to wear it, keeping your teeth in their perfect positions.
Keep Your Retainer Case Handy
Always have your retainer case with you. If you need to take your retainer out for meals or extracurriculars, store it in the case to avoid losing or damaging it. Never wrap it in a napkin, as it can easily be thrown away by mistake.
Clean Your Retainer Regularly
Clean your retainer daily to keep it fresh and free of bacteria. Use a toothbrush and mild soap or a retainer cleaner. No need to use hot water. It can warp your retainer. Keeping your retainer clean helps maintain oral hygiene and ensures it stays in good condition.
Regain (And Retain) Your Smile With Us
New England Orthodontic Specialists has offices in Beverly, Lynn, Salem, South Hamilton, and Topsfield. To learn more about how orthodontic treatment (like retainers) can help you, go here to set up your free consultation with Dr. Diana or Dr. Neil.