Why Are Dental Retainers Necessary?

Maintaining your newly corrected smile is as important as the straightening process, which is why dental retainers are required. Orthodontic treatment requires commitment — following rules, patience, and determination — to get the best results. At the end of the treatment, you will have a smile that you are willing to show off.

However, the removal of the braces or aligners is the first stage of having straight teeth and better oral health. You need to understand the importance of wearing retainers after orthodontic treatment because they are vital for preventing your teeth from moving to their previous positions. In this article, you will learn about the importance of dental retainers.

What is a retainer?

A retainer is an orthodontic device created and customized to match the patient’s mouth. The dentist will make an impression of the newly straightened teeth and use it to create a durable and transparent mold made of plastic material.

The retainer may feel odd in the mouth at first, but the discomfort is typically temporary. This discomfort should not be a deterrent for wearing the retainers consistently, as that may affect their effectiveness. Failure to wear the retainer will cause the teeth to gradually move toward their previous positions, leaving the teeth where they were before the patient started orthodontic treatment.

Types of retainers

Two types of retainers are available: fixed dental retainers and removable retainers. The dentist will evaluate the patient's condition to determine the best option for them. A fixed retainer is made up of thin wires positioned behind the teeth and uses the same mechanism as braces. Removable retainers can be removed and look identical to clear aligners.

Some types of retainers have to be used for a lifetime after completing the teeth straightening. That may sound overwhelming at first, but patients will get used to it quickly.

How a retainer works

During orthodontic treatment, the teeth are not the only things that move. Each tooth is supported firmly by elastic ligaments connecting the tooth roots to the bone. These ligaments are also affected by tooth movement and encourage the gradual movement of the teeth. When the dentist places tension on the teeth with braces or aligners, it triggers the creation of new ligaments and sometimes, bone.

The first stage of the treatment is referred to as the remodeling stage, and once this is over, the tissues, ligaments, and bone will require time to stabilize. Without the presence of retainers to hold these positions at that stage, the teeth will usually find a way to shift to their original positions. Several months or years may be needed for the teeth to become permanent in their new location.

The length of time to wear a retainer

Patients will need to wear their retainer continuously to keep their teeth straight. However, the length of time for retainer use depends on how long ago it was since the braces came off. Patients will need to maintain regular retainer use as directed by the dentist. Not wearing the retainer for a day or two will probably not create any problems, but many people end up not wearing it for weeks or months. This will lead to shifts in teeth positions over time.

For the first three to six months after getting the braces off, patients should wear the retainer as often as possible. After this period, most dentists will recommend at least sleeping with the retainer in place for at least the next three years. It is recommended that retainers be worn at least two to three times per week for at least three years after the braces have been removed.

Caring for the retainer

Patients need to keep their retainer in excellent shape. Damage to teeth is a common result of a buildup of bacteria in the mouth. Maintaining a clean and well-maintained retainer is essential for its continued effectiveness in preserving the straightened teeth. Always use cold water to clean the retainer before and after each usage.

Patients will clean a permanent retainer the same way that they cleaned their braces. A detachable retainer should remain in a plastic case while not in use. A retainer may be damaged by heat, so never soak it in hot water. A retainer cleaner should be used every few months to clean it thoroughly.

Final note

Wearing your dental retainer as instructed will ensure that the supporting bones and tissues of the teeth align with the new locations and make the orthodontic treatment long-lasting.

Request an appointment here: https://paramountdentalspecialty.com or call Paramount Dental Care & Specialty at 5624501261 for an appointment in our Long Beach office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Retainers in Long Beach, CA.