Posted on June 13, 2022
After treatment with braces can be completed, Dr. Chelian will usually recommend a retainer, which is a small appliance that slips over your teeth and applies just enough pressure to keep them in place. While it may be easy to dismiss the use of retainers, doing so is critical to sustaining the benefits you gained from braces. Because they did not wear their retainers properly in the past, around 25% of individuals who have had braces had to receive them again.
Unfortunately, there is no guarantee that the results from using braces will last. In truth, once the constraints keeping the teeth in place are removed, teeth will naturally begin to return to their original positions. A retainer helps prevent them from reverting to their previous misalignment once the braces are removed. Over time, as teeth get more solidly established, their propensity to move lessens. That said, this tendency can remain for up to a year and a half. It’s crucial to use your retainer as often as possible during the first 3 to 6 months after the braces are removed, but they’ll likely need to be worn for a considerable period to avoid regression. For many, nighttime braces are a lifelong habit.
Retainers come in a variety of styles. In teen orthodontics, an orthodontist will provide you with the option that is best for you, depending on the type of treatment you received. Many factors will influence the decision, including the amount of movement your teeth underwent while wearing braces and your personal preferences.
Removable Retainers: These retainers are very user-friendly and popular in teen orthodontics because they are easy to clean. They last a long time before the need for replacement arises. It permits natural contact between the teeth and allows orthodontists to make adjustments to your tooth alignment.
Permanent Wire Retainers: A permanent or fixed retainer is often worn as a wire that runs over the back of the upper or lower front teeth and is cemented with bracket-like cement. This option is usually recommended for people who have had extensive orthodontic treatment and want their retainers to be permanent. After a couple of years, your orthodontist may decide that this permanent retainer can be removed in favor of a removable one.
Plastic Retainers: Plastic retainers are manufactured from a transparent mold that fits smoothly over your teeth. These retainers are utilized in teen orthodontics for people who want their retainers to be as inconspicuous as possible. The recommended use for this style of retainers is nightly for as long as you are able, to prevent your teeth from shifting out of alignment again.
Retainers are crucial to maintaining excellent teeth alignment after using braces. Failing to use them properly will result in regression to misaligned teeth. Hence, proper usage should be adhered to. If you need expert orthodontics and consultation, contact us!
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