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Congratulations on achieving a beautiful, straight smile! Although your braces or aligners are off, your orthodontic care isn’t over yet. To ensure your teeth remain in their new positions, it’s essential to use a retainer.
Why Retainers Matter
Retainers are crucial as they prevent your teeth from shifting back to their original positions. After orthodontic treatment, retainers help hold your teeth while the surrounding gums, bones, and muscles adapt to the changes.
Types of Retainers
Retainers come in both removable and fixed forms:
Aligner-style Retainers (Essix): These clear retainers are similar to Invisalign aligners and cover the entire arch of your teeth or just the front six (canine to canine). They are made from a mold of your aligned teeth and offer a discreet look.
Fixed Retainers: Comprising wires bonded behind your teeth, fixed retainers are used for specific needs, such as keeping a gap closed. They typically require a nightly over-retainer and should be removed after 5 years due to hygiene concerns.
Pros and Cons
Removable Retainers: These can be taken out for eating and cleaning, which makes maintaining oral hygiene easier. However, they can be easily misplaced, so it’s important to store them in their case when not in use.
Fixed Retainers: While they provide continuous correction, cleaning around fixed retainers requires extra effort. Using floss threaders to navigate dental floss through the small gaps between the retainer and teeth is essential to prevent tartar buildup.
Remember, wearing your retainer as directed is key to keeping your smile perfect long after your orthodontic journey ends. If you have any questions about your retainer or need further assistance, don’t hesitate to contact your orthodontist.
