Why Do You Need a Retainer
You’ve been going to appointments, brushing carefully, turning down popcorn and candy for months and months while wearing braces. They’re finally off, and your smile is looking great. So why, after all that hard work, do you still need to wear a retainer?
When you commit to orthodontic treatment, it’s very important to understand you are also going to need retainers to hold the final result. As we continue to age, our gums and lips will undergo changes, which can impact the position of our teeth over time. Our teeth also have a strong memory and, because of the fibres that hold them in place, they may try to return to their previously crooked or crowded position.
A retainer, which is provided by your orthodontist as part of your initial treatment plan, will be custom designed to hold your smile in its optimal position. It’s very important to use your retainer as instructed by your orthodontist to ensure you won’t need further orthodontic treatment to deal with relapse.
TYPES OF RETAINERS
There are two types of orthodontic retainers: fixed and removable. Removable retainers can be taken out when you need to eat or brush your teeth. Fixed retainers are permanently glued to your teeth and should only be removed by your orthodontist.
CARING FOR YOUR RETAINER
If you’re wearing a removable retainer, it’s important to keep it clean between usages. And when it comes to the fixed retainers, it’s very important to brush and floss around it to prevent plaque build up. If you encounter any problems with your retainer, you normally return to your orthodontist. But if it’s not possible to do so, you can check in with your general dentist for immediate concerns like broken wires.
To ask any further questions about retainers and orthodontic treatment, feel free to get in touch with our practice. Initial consultations at Britton Orthodontics are complimentary.
You can learn more about our office on our WEBSITE
You can also book a visit online, or call 905-336-9916.