Finally, you are free from braces and have your beautiful, dazzling smile. But wait a minute—your orthodontic journey isn’t over just yet. While you might be done with metal braces, you now need to wear a retainer to stabilize and preserve your results. Over 4 million Americans use braces, and nearly 50% undergo orthodontic treatment, including orthodontic retention. This might be new information to you, but this is the last and crucial step of orthodontic treatment.
Don’t worry; this article will help you understand Orthodontic Retention.
What is Orthodontic Retention?
Orthodontic retention is the final stage of orthodontic treatment. This stage is focused on maintaining the correct position of the teeth after braces or Invisalign treatment. Teeth tend to return to their pre-treatment positions due to the forces exerted by periodontal fibers. This crucial stage effectively prevents the relapse of dental issues.
You might be wondering: How long do I have to wear a retainer after braces treatment?
Typically, you will need to wear the retainer daily for about 12 months. After this initial period, you may be able to wear the retainer only at night. This helps maintain the position of the teeth and gives you a confident smile.
Types of Retainers
Hawley Retainers
These are also known as wire or removable retainers and are made of thin metal, plastic, or acrylic. The retainer is shaped like a tongue and fits comfortably along the roof of the mouth or the inside of the lower teeth.
Advantages:
- Durable and repairable compared to other retainers.
- Can be adjusted for a better fit.
- Can allow for slight realignment if needed.
- With proper care, they can last for several years.
Disadvantages:
- May affect speech due to the metal component.
- Highly noticeable because of the metal around the teeth.
- Might cause slight irritation at the beginning.
Fixed Bonded Retainers
These retainers are usually used for the front bottom teeth, where a wire is permanently cemented to keep the teeth in place. Also known as permanent retainers, they are commonly used by dentists for young children who might not follow instructions well and have a higher chance of teeth misalignment due to growth patterns.
Advantages:
- Not visible to others since they are placed inside the bottom teeth.
- Can be easily cleaned with a brush.
- Does not affect speech.
Disadvantages:
- Flossing may be difficult.
- The metal wire might cause irritation.
Clear Plastic Retainer
As the name suggests, these retainers are made of clear plastic and resemble clear aligners. They are also known as molded retainers, as a vacuum-formed plastic mold fits precisely over the teeth.
Advantages:
- Less noticeable, making them more comfortable for all-day wear.
- Less likely to affect speech.
- Provides a snug fit, making them more comfortable than Hawley retainers.
Disadvantages:
- Prone to cracking or breaking and can be damaged by heat.
- May cause discomfort as the upper and lower teeth don’t touch naturally.
- Can trap liquid, leading to cavities (so it’s important to clean them regularly).
Tips for Cleaning Retainers
Just like your teeth, it’s essential to maintain the hygiene of your retainer for long-lasting effectiveness. As these are made from various materials, food particles can get stuck, leading to plaque buildup, bacteria, cavities, and bad breath—things no one wants. Here are some tips to help you protect your teeth and retainers:
- Consistency is key: Brush your teeth twice a day without fail. If you use removable retainers, always wash them before and after use. This routine will prevent bacteria buildup and bad breath.
- Weekly care: It is recommended to soak your retainer overnight in a denture or special cleaning solution once a week. This important step helps remove plaque buildup.
- Proper storage: If you’re not using the retainer, store it in a clean box after washing it. Make sure the box does not come into contact with dust or dirt.
- For permanent retainers: Along with brushing, gently floss to avoid damaging your retainers and teeth.
Conclusion
Retainers play an essential role in completing your teeth alignment treatment. They help maintain and improve your teeth’s position, preventing them from returning to their previous state. Trust the process—it’s necessary to wear them, especially right after the braces come off. Understanding how to wear them and how long you need to wear them will lead to great results.
To learn more about the benefits of retainers and their importance after braces, get in touch with Elite Dental Group.