Commonly Asked Questions for Orthodontists About Retainers

Your orthodontist has many options and approaches available to straighten your teeth and correct other issues. You can have peace of mind to know that each solution can be effective and help you to achieve a new smile. You can then feel good about your appearance and have more self-esteem. If part of your treatment includes wearing a retainer, you may have some questions. It is important to know how this device works and what its purpose is.

Understanding retainers

A retainer is an orthodontic device that a patient may wear for different purposes. The appliance holds the teeth in place, usually after the patient has completed treatment with braces or aligners. After a tooth-straightening process, the bone will strengthen. While this is happening, teeth will start to shift to their original places.

Retainers prevent this. Retainers can either be removable or permanent. The device may have a plastic base that fits to the roof of the person’s mouth. Some retainers are made of plastic and are custom-made to fit over the person’s teeth. Others are bonded to the back of the person’s teeth.

How long will the patient need to wear it?

After the orthodontist removes the braces or completes the teeth-straightening treatment, the patient will wear a retainer. The length of time will depend on how well the bone is strengthening and how severe the previous misalignment was. At first, the patient should wear the retainer 24 hours a day. This pattern typically continues for a few months. After this point, the patient should wear it at night for up to a year or more.

How can the patient care for it?

The retainer should last for as long as the patient needs the treatment. However, neglect or rough use can damage the device or make it ineffective. The patient should remove it while eating and rinse it off throughout the day. It is also helpful to brush it twice a day with a soft-bristled brush. When not wearing the retainer, the patient should keep it safe in a container, which the orthodontist will provide.

What happens if it breaks?

Retainers are not indestructible. It is possible to crack the base or rip the plastic. These issues can occur due to dropping it, stepping on it, or biting into something hard. It is essential to call the orthodontist right away and report the damage. At the orthodontist’s office, the team may be able to repair the appliance. In more serious cases, a replacement may be necessary.