Retainers are an essential step in orthodontic treatment, especially after braces. They play a crucial role in maintaining the new position of your teeth. After braces treatment, teeth can easily shift back to their original positions without retainers. This is the reason, retainers are incredibly important, for keeping your smile aligned and beautiful.
But why are retainers so important? This blog post will shed light on the significance of retainers in preserving the perfect smile.
What is a Retainer?
A retainer is an orthodontic device made of plastic and metal. It’s worn in the mouth to keep teeth in place after braces are removed. When someone has braces, their teeth are moved to a new position.
But after the teeth braces come off, it can shift back. So, a retainer is used to hold the teeth in their new position. It’s especially important for people who’ve just had braces, to make sure their teeth stay in the correct position.
Types of Retainers
The best way to straighten teeth is through orthodontic treatment, which may include braces and aligners. There are several types of retainers which are listed below-
- Permanent Fixed Lingual Retainers
These retainers are attached to the back of teeth. It offers a discreet way to maintain teeth alignment post-orthodontic treatment. They’re durable and effective but require good oral hygiene to prevent plaque buildup.
2. Removable Hawley Wire Retainers
This type of retainer is made of acrylic and a metal wire. They are long-lasting and easy to clean. These retainers are more noticeable than other types of retainers and impact speech initially.
3. Clear Plastic Retainers
They are virtually invisible over the teeth. They’re delicate and comfortable but may need replacing more often than other retainers. These retainers are less durable.
Related Post: Permanent vs. Removable Retainers-Which is Right
Reasons Why Are Retainers Important?
Retainers are crucial for maintaining a straight smile after braces. They help teeth settle into their new positions, prevent relapse, and ensure your smile stays beautiful for years. Some of the important reasons why retainers are important are listed below-
- Maintain Straight Teeth– Retainers help keep your teeth in a straight position after braces are removed, preventing them from shifting back.
- Preserve Orthodontic Results– They safeguard the results of your treatment, ensuring your smile remains beautiful and aligned.
- Prevent Relapse– Without retainers, your teeth might gradually move out of place, leading to relapse and the need for further treatment.
- Comfortable and Convenient– Retainers are comfortable to wear, and easily removable for meals and cleaning.
- Long-term Investment– Investing in retainers is investing in a lifetime of confidence and oral health. It also helps in preserving your orthodontic investment.
How to Put on Retainers?
- Before handling your retainers, clean your hands thoroughly.
- To remove debris and residue, rinse your retainers with cool water.
- Ensure that your retainers are clean and free from any damage.
- To make sure it fits delicately, gently position your retainers onto your teeth.
- Starting from the front and moving towards the back of your mouth, apply equal pressure to the retainer with the help of your fingertips.
- Adjust the retainer, if not placed properly.
- The procedure is the same for both lower and upper retainers.
- Use your tongue to check that both the retainers are placed correctly.
- Avoid clenching down and biting too hard on retainers, as it may cause damage.
- Follow the instructions of the orthodontist, to know how long to wear the retainers each day.
How to Take Care of Retainers?
The care of retainers is essential for keeping your teeth in good and new condition. The following steps can help you to take care of your retainers–
- Clean your retainers regularly with a toothbrush and water after each use.
- Wear your retainers often as recommended by your orthodontist.
- It’s better to avoid heat on your retainer. The reason behind this is that it will melt or wrap in a hot environment.
- Soak your retainer for at least 5 to 10 minutes with the help of a retainer cleaner.
- Make sure to carefully put and take off your retainer, and put it into a storage box to avoid any damage.
- Brush after and before wearing your retainer, to avoid dirt and bacteria.
- Keep your retainer in one spot, when not in use.
Find the Best Retainers in Colorado
Dr Amir Fereydouni best dentist in Denver Colorado, renowned for his expertise in retainers and other dental services. He offers a range of dental services, including permanent retainers, which are crucial for maintaining teeth alignment after braces.
Patients appreciate his gentle approach and affordable dentistry in Colorado, Littleton, Commerce City, and Montbello Office for providing care with understanding and compassion. He understands that your smile is not just about looks but also about confidence, and health.
FAQs
- Why Are Retainers Important After Braces?
Retainers are important after braces because they help maintain the new position of your teeth. Without retainers, teeth have a tendency to shift back to their original positions over time.
- What Are The Different Types of Retainers?
There are several types of retainers having their own advantages and considerations in terms of durability, visibility, and maintenance. Some of the best types of retainers are listed below-
- Permanent fixed lingual retainers
- Removable Hawley wire retainers
- Clear plastic retainers
