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 it. We have Beverly, Lynn, Salem, South Hamilton and Topsfield offices, so it’s easier to keep up with your orthodontic care. Below you’ll learn what retainers are and why they matter, and if you’ve fallen out of the habit of wearing yours, what to do about it.
What Is a Retainer?
A retainer is a custom-made orthodontic device. We design yours to keep your teeth in place after treatment like braces or clear aligners. Its main job is to hold your teeth in their new position and stop them from drifting back to where they started.
Removable Retainers
Removable retainers are custom-fitted appliances you can take out whenever you need to. They’re usually made of plastic and metal, and our team recommends wearing them every night. The big advantage is how easy they are to clean. The catch is that you have to remember to wear them regularly, or your teeth can start to shift.
Consequences of Not Wearing Your Retainer
If you’re reading a blog about retainers, there’s a good chance you’ve stopped wearing yours. Skipping wear has real consequences, and here’s what can happen.
What Is Relapse?
Relapse is when your teeth gradually move back toward their original positions after orthodontic treatment. After your braces or aligners come off, the tissue and bone around your teeth need time to settle in the new positions. Without the steady support of a retainer, your teeth can shift and undo the progress you made. Regular retainer use is what prevents relapse and keeps your smile straight.
Crooked Teeth
When teeth shift back, they can become crooked again, which is likely part of the reason you sought treatment in the first place. Beyond the way they look, crooked teeth are harder to clean, and that leads to plaque buildup and a higher risk of cavities. Proper alignment makes brushing and flossing easier and helps protect your overall oral health.
Bite Issues
Shifting teeth can cause bite problems like an overbite, underbite or crossbite. These can affect how you chew and speak, and a misaligned bite, or “malocclusion,” can lead to jaw pain and discomfort. Wearing your retainer keeps your bite in its corrected position so it stays comfortable and functional.
Increased Risk of Dental Problems
Misaligned teeth create spots that are hard to clean, and that is where plaque and tartar collect. Over time that raises your risk of cavities and gum disease. Keeping your teeth in their proper positions with regular retainer use makes daily hygiene 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. Our team will assess how much your teeth have moved and figure out the best course of action. Catching it early helps keep the fix quick and simple, and we offer options that are fast and convenient.
Assessment of Teeth Shifting
During your appointment, our team will examine your teeth to see how far they’ve moved. We might take new X-rays or impressions to get a clear picture. From there we build a plan to get your smile back on track.
Consistent Retainer Use
Once your teeth are back in place, you must wear your retainer consistently. Follow the instructions from your orthodontist to avoid another relapse. Building a routine around retainer use is what keeps your smile straight for years to come.
Tips for Consistent Retainer Use
Just got a new retainer from our team? Here are a few tips to help you stay consistent.
Set a Routine
Make wearing your retainer part of your daily habits. Put it in at the same time each day, like right before bed. A set routine keeps you from forgetting and keeps your teeth where they belong.
Keep Your Retainer Case Handy
Always have your case with you. If you need to take your retainer out for a meal or activity, store it in the case so it doesn’t get lost or damaged. Never wrap it in a napkin, since that’s the easiest way to throw it out 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, and skip the hot water because it can warp the retainer. For the full routine, here’s how to clean your retainer the right way.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if you stop wearing your retainer?
Your teeth can gradually drift back toward their old positions, a process called relapse. You might notice crowding, a changed bite or teeth that look crooked again.
Can teeth shift years after braces?
Yes. Teeth can move at any age, which is why most orthodontists recommend wearing a retainer part time for the long term.
Can you fix teeth that shifted after not wearing a retainer?
Often, yes. If the movement is minor, a new retainer may be enough. If teeth have moved more, a short round of treatment can bring them back. An exam is the way to know for sure.
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 we can help you get your smile back, set up your free consultation with Dr. Diana or Dr. Neil.