Braces are an effective tool for realigning teeth, and many individuals have seen significant improvements in their smiles thanks to this orthodontic treatment.
However, what many people may not realise is that the journey to a perfectly aligned smile doesn’t end when the braces come off. The retention phase, which involves wearing a retainer, is equally important.
This blog will delve into the importance of retainers, and why they are a critical part of the orthodontic journey.
What Role Does a Retainer Play After Braces?
A retainer is an orthodontic appliance that is typically used after braces to maintain the new position of your teeth.
When braces are removed, your teeth tend to shift back to their original position, a phenomenon known as relapse. Retainers prevent this from happening by holding your teeth in their new, correct positions until your jawbone, gums, and muscles have adapted to the change.
When braces move your teeth, they also affect the surrounding bone and tissues. Although the teeth may appear to be firmly set in their new positions once the braces are removed, the bone and soft tissues around them need more time to stabilise.
This is why a retainer is necessary; to allow these structures to solidify the new tooth alignment.
What Happens If You Don’t Wear Your Retainer?
Choosing not to wear your retainer after braces can lead to several issues.
Firstly, there’s a high risk that your teeth will slowly drift back to their original positions. This is especially likely in the first few months after your braces have been removed when the structures around your teeth are still adjusting.
This relapse can undo all the hard work done by the braces, causing not just aesthetic concerns, but potential oral health issues as well.
Secondly, not wearing a retainer could lead to bite problems. Braces often correct malocclusion (improper alignment of the teeth when the jaws are closed), and without a retainer, the alignment could revert to its previous state.
This could lead to jaw pain, difficulty in chewing, and increased wear and tear on your teeth.
How Long Should You Wear Your Retainer?
The duration for which you should wear your retainer after braces will depend on individual circumstances, including the type of orthodontic issues you had and how long you wore braces.
However, as a general rule, our team recommend wearing your retainer full-time (except for when eating and cleaning your teeth) for at least the first few months post-braces.
After this period, you may switch to wearing your retainer at night only. However, it’s essential to follow the specific advice given by your orthodontist, as individual needs can vary. Some patients might need to wear their retainers indefinitely to ensure their teeth don’t shift.
Take the First Step Towards a Lifelong Straight Smile with Smart Smile Orthodontics Brisbane
At Smart Smile Orthodontics Brisbane, we understand the importance of every stage in your orthodontic journey.
From the initial consultation through to fitting braces and providing post-treatment care with retainers, our team of experienced orthodontists is here to ensure your smile remains beautiful and healthy for a lifetime.
A perfect smile isn’t just about straightening your teeth with braces; it’s about maintaining those results with a retainer. If you’re nearing the end of your braces journey or if you’ve just had your braces removed, contact us today.
Our team will provide you with a custom-fit retainer and comprehensive instructions on how to use it, ensuring your smile stays as perfect as the day your braces came off.
Remember, a retainer is a small investment to protect the larger investment of time and money you’ve put into your braces.
It’s your best defence against your teeth reverting to their original position and it helps to keep your smile looking its best.
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