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Whether you have had traditional braces or Invisalign, after them, your teeth will need some time to stabilize in their new position. This is where the retainers come into play. Retainers are custom-made devices that keep your teeth in proper alignment for years.
Let’s look at retainers and why their long-term use is important after orthodontic treatments like braces and Invisalign.
Retainers: What Are They?
Braces or Invisalign straighten your teeth,but it is normal for teeth to move over time.Retainers keep them in the straightened position.
There are two main types of retainers: fixed and removable. As the name suggests, fixed or permanent retainers stay on your teeth with a glue-like bonding agent, while removable retainers can go in and out of your mouth.
An orthodontist can fit your retainers into your mouth after removing braces or Invisalign. You may have to wear the retainers day and night for at least four to six months. After this, you will need to wear the retainers at night for the rest of your life.
Consistent and long-term use of the retainer is vital to enjoy the full benefits of your orthodontic treatment and keep your smile healthy and beautiful for years to come.
Importance of Retainers
The following are the reasons why you should consider retainers following braces or Invisalign.
Prevent Relapse
One of the primary reasons for using retainers after orthodontic treatment with braces or Invisalign is to prevent the unwanted shifting or movement of the teeth back toward the original position once braces or Invisalign are removed.
This means wearing retainers keep your teeth in the proper alignment so that the results of your orthodontic treatment last.
Stabilize Bone and Soft Tissues
After orthodontic treatments, such as braces or aligners, the tissues, ligaments, and bones need some time to stabilize. Without retainers, teeth will find a way to move back to their old alignment or position.
Retainers allow the ligaments, bones, and other soft tissues to settle properly during stabilization time, minimizing the risk of teeth shifting back.
Help Adapt to Bite Changes
After completing orthodontic treatment with braces or Invisalign, your teeth may feel slightly different, and your bite may have changed. Consistent use of the retainers helps you gradually adapt to the changes in the bite and occlusion, making the transition more natural and comfortable for you.
Orthodontist in Eugene, OR
Whether you are looking for braces or are seeking retainers so that the results of your orthodontic treatment last for years, visit us here at 360 Dental. Our orthodontist, Dr. Ari Binder, can correct your overbite or underbite, align your teeth, and prescribe retainers to maintain the results of your other orthodontic treatment and prevent relapse.
If you would like to schedule aone-on-one consultation with our orthodontist, please contact our staff today at (541) 689-1645 or fill out our online appointment request form.
