Completing orthodontic treatment is a wonderful visit, isn’t it? No more metal braces or aligners to wear and your teeth look straighter than ever before. Not only are you sporting a more radiant, healthier smile, but you are also free from the restraints braces can oftentimes require. But before you say goodbye to orthodontics for good, there is one more aspect of treatment you’ll need to continue with and that is wearing a retainer. That is if you don’t want your teeth to shift back to their original spot. Find out what a dentist has to say about these removable fixtures and how long you can expect to wear one.
What is the Purpose of a Retainer?
Teeth surprisingly have a very good memory. While this might sound funny, it’s true, and here’s how your dentist knows. As soon as you complete your orthodontic treatment, you’ll begin discussing a new fixture for your mouth – a retainer. These small, metal devices are customized to fit your mouth and meet your individual dental needs. Their purpose is to keep your teeth from shifting out of place. Without one, the time and money spent straightening your teeth might as well be tossed out the window because your teeth will begin to shift back into their original position.
Not all retainers are removable, and should you and your dentist decide you would best benefit from a fixed one, that can be arranged.
How Long Will I Need to Wear One After My Orthodontic Treatment?
While discussing your post-orthodontic treatment plan, your dentist will instruct you on how long you can expect to wear your retainer. Everyone is different and so are their dental needs, but on average, you can expect to wear your retainer 24 hours a day for the first six months after having your braces removed. After that time, you can switch to wearing your retainer at night while you sleep.
There are a few things you should remember though when it comes to wearing a retainer:
- Always remove it before eating, brushing your teeth, and flossing
- Never wear your retainer while playing sports
- Clean them regularly with tap water, a toothbrush, and a little bit of toothpaste
- When you’re not wearing your retainer, it’s important that you keep it in a protective case to prevent breakage
While it might seem like a never-ending treatment plan, maintaining a straighter smile is a long-term commitment. A retainer doesn’t take up much of your time, nor does it hinder your ability to enjoy the foods you love. Simply stick to the tips listed above and adhere to your dentist’s instructions, and you’ll be enjoying your straighter, healthier smile for many years.
About the Author
Dr. Dalia Georgy and her husband, Dr. Mohanna, oversee Glenpool Braces and want to see their patients achieve confident, healthy smiles. Even after successful orthodontic treatment, you’ll need to wear a retainer to keep your teeth from shifting back to their original spot. We will be happy to discuss options with you and help you decide which type of retainer is right for you. To learn more, contact us via our website or by calling (918) 201-1414.