You have endured months of wires, elastic bands, and dedication to complete your teeth straightening treatment. So why does your orthodontist still insist you wear a retainer? This final step is crucial for protecting your investment in a beautiful smile.
Prevent Tooth Shift Relapse
Teeth tend to drift back toward their original crooked positions, even after braces. This is because the periodontal fibers attaching them to the jawbone regain elasticity once orthodontic force is no longer constantly applied. Retainers keep teeth firmly in corrected alignment while these tissues get firm to support your new bite and smile.
Wearing retainers full-time as initially directed prevents the investment of time, discomfort, and cost from being reversed. Gradual transitioning then allows you to maintain stability with part-time nightly wear, depending on individual relapse risk factors.
Types of Retainers
Clear plastic aligners matching your newly straightened teeth may be recommended as removable retainers for part- or full-time wear. More discrete options fix wire casings to the tongue-facing surfaces of upper and lower teeth. In certain cases, orthodontists may bond permanent wire bars behind specific teeth to provide additional reinforcement.
Your orthodontist will prescribe the type suited to your completion needs based on treatment complexity, compliance, and lifestyle considerations like contact sports. Properly and consistently wearing the designated retainers is vital.
Caring for Your Retainers
Handle clear plastic retainers carefully, avoiding drops that can crack or warp the custom-fitted shape and allow teeth to shift. Brush retainers gently before inserting to avoid trapping new bacteria. Always store retainers in the provided case when not being worn to minimize misplacement or accidental damage by pets.
Inform your orthodontist about any changes in retainer fit over time, as this indicates changes in tooth position that should be addressed promptly. Periodic checks may allow transitioning to night-only retainer wear based on stability.
Maintain Your Picture-Perfect Smile With Retainer Care
With dedication to regular wear and care of your prescribed retainer routine, you can expect a smile to stay picture-perfect for years beyond completing orthodontic treatment. Contact us anytime with questions on this critical phase!
About | Orthodontist Temecula CA Learn more about orthodontic practice in Temecula, CA, on our website. Info on Dr. Christopher Roncone, board certification, FAQ's & more! Roncone Orthodontics - Dr. Christopher Roncone, 32140 Temecula Pkwy Suite 201, Temecula, CA 92592 - (951) 595-8291 - ronconeortho.com - 1/18/2025 - Related Phrases: Orthodontist Temecula CA -
You have endured months of wires, elastic bands, and dedication to complete your teeth straightening treatment. So why does your orthodontist still insist you wear a retainer? This final step is crucial for protecting your investment in a beautiful smile.