Many people mistakenly believe that their teeth will stay perfectly aligned once braces are removed. While braces successfully straighten teeth, orthodontic retainers after braces are essential. They keep the teeth properly aligned after braces are removed, preventing orthodontic relapse; making these custom-made devices an absolute necessity for a beautiful smile.
The use of dental retainers following braces is a crucial step in ensuring the longevity of orthodontic treatment results. This blog will shed light on the reasons why retainers are essential and provide valuable insights to help readers understand the importance of this post-braces care.
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A] What Are Retainers?
Retainers are devices that retain teeth in their new positions after correction with braces or Invisalign. They are made specifically to go over your teeth. These custom-made devices are made of metal or plastic to keep your teeth aligned and straight.
Read our detailed guide on braces vs Invisalign to make an informed decision.
There are two types of orthodontic retainers to maintain teeth in new positions. The fixed ones are bonded to the back of the teeth and can’t be removed. They run along the inside of the teeth as a thin wire. On the other hand, removable retainers are made of a combination of wire and acrylic or clear plastic. They can be taken out for cleaning.
Although braces make your teeth straight, the gums, bones, and muscles are still not used to the change. In such cases, fixed dental retainers after braces provide continuous support by permanently staying in place. In contrast, removable retainers can usually be taken out during the day for eating food, brushing teeth and cleaning.
B] Why Orthodontic Retainers After Braces Are Essential
Teeth retainers after braces are essential for the following reasons:
1. Prevents Teeth Shifting
Once your dentist removes the braces, your teeth tend to move back to their original position. This may get worse without a retainer. If you’re wondering, “Do retainers straighten teeth? ” That is not the case. The braces make your teeth straight, but a retainer helps maintain the benefits of dental braces.
Post braces removal, activities like chewing and grinding can re-shift your teeth to some extent and very rarely to their original position. It can also lead to malocclusion, which means your upper and lower teeth don’t align when the mouth is closed. To prevent this orthodontic relapse, it’s better to wear retainers to hold the teeth in place. You can learn more with our guide to braces for kids.
2. Stabilises Bite
Retainers help stabilise your bite after braces are removed. They ensure that your teeth settle into their new positions and do not lead to underbite or overbite, which can cause problems with chewing, speech, and facial appearance.
3. Allows Gums And Bone To Adapt
The gums, bones, and muscles surrounding your teeth need time to adapt to the changes brought about by braces. To maintain this new alignment of teeth and give them enough time to heal, it becomes very essential for one to wear dental retainers after braces removal.
The Braces Point, a dental clinic in Andheri West, can provide information about wearing retainers and their importance. You can also consult them if the question “How long do I have to wear retainers after braces?” bothers you.
4. Long-term Results And Investment Protection
Orthodontic treatment is a significant investment, both in terms of time and money. Without retainers, the benefits of braces can be reversed, necessitating additional treatments and potentially higher costs. Retainers protect your investment by ensuring that your straight smile lasts for years to come.
C] Types of Retainers And Their Benefits
After understanding what is dental retainer and its significance, let’s look into the types and their benefits:
1. Removable Retainers
Removable retainers are custom devices that you can remove from your mouth. There are two kinds: Hawley wire retainers and Clear plastic retainers (Essix).
- Hawley Wire Retainers: These orthodontic retainers are made of bendable wire and plastic. The plastic portion is customised to fit your mouth easily while the wire goes across the front teeth. These are easy to adjust and come in different colours and styles. You can easily clean them.
- Clear Plastic Retainers (Essix): Essix retainers are made of clear plastic and are nearly invisible. Many prefer it because they are less bulky and have a minimal impact on speech. They are a snug fit over your teeth. However, they can crack easily and, thus, have a shorter lifespan.
2. Fixed Retainers
Permanent or fixed retainers are wires attached to the back of the teeth, bonded to stay on your teeth through a glue-like agent. They are more suited for maintaining the alignment of lower and upper front teeth.
These teeth retainers after braces offer the advantage of being permanently in place, thus removing the risk of forgetting to wear them. You can get constant support from them on your front, lower, or upper teeth and prevent movement. One common type of fixed retainer has the Multi-Purpose Attachment (MPA), which is a versatile device that can be used to bond lingual retainer wires more easily and firmly.
Fixed retainers are ideal for those with crowded, spaced, or rotated teeth. Since these retainers are permanent and cannot be removed, a consistent cleanup schedule is necessary to prevent plaque and other dental problems.
D] How To Care For Your Retainer?
The following points will explain how to care for dental retainers after braces:
1. Cleaning and Maintenance
Cleaning your retainer at least once a day is crucial. For removable retainers, clean them daily with a toothbrush and mild soap. Try not to use hot water because it can warp the plastic. Don’t use toothpaste because it can scratch and be abrasive. You can consult your orthodontist for a soft-bristled toothbrush or toothpaste.
For fixed retainers, it is better to brush and floss carefully to ensure there’s no plaque buildup. For brushing, keep the brush at a vertical and horizontal angle to ensure no food particles remain stuck.
2. Handling And Storage
For handling and storing your retainers, some points to keep in mind include:
- When you remove the retainer, put it in a case so it doesn’t break or you don’t lose it.
- Don’t put the retainer directly in a purse without a case.
- Don’t chew gum when you wear a retainer.
- Keep the retainer away from children or pets.
- Don’t leave it in a hot place where it can melt.
- Take the retainer out before you eat to prevent food particles from sticking to it and to avoid mechanical breakage.
3. Regular Check-Ups
If you’re wearing retainers to maintain teeth after braces treatment, it’s better to visit the orthodontists regularly. They will check if it’s in good condition and fitting correctly. If adjustments are needed to maintain effectiveness, the orthodontist will make them. Plus, it also helps to improve your quality of life. There is a significant connection between oral health and overall health.
Read More: Tips For Healthy Gums And Teeth.
4. Duration Of Wearing Retainers
The teeth retainer plays a crucial role in maintaining the results of your braces treatment and is designed to be a lifelong companion. Following the initial 7-9 month period of full-time wear post-braces, your orthodontist may recommend transitioning to part-time wear, usually just during the night. Consistency is the key to ensuring the best results.
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Conclusion
People with braces who want to maintain the health and alignment of their teeth need a retainer after the removal of braces. It helps stabilise the bite and prevents orthodontic relapse.
It is essential to carefully follow your orthodontist’s instructions regarding wearing and caring for your retainers. By diligently following their advice and attending regular check-ups, you can safeguard the durability and effectiveness of your retainers, ultimately preserving the alignment and health of your teeth.
Contact The Braces Point Total Dental Care Clinic if you’re looking for industry experts to examine your teeth’ alignment and positioning. Also learn about Invisalign braces cost in Mumbai with our blog.
Dr. Nikhil Vashi
Dr. Nikhil Vashi, an esteemed Orthodontist with over three decades of experience, earned his MDS in Orthodontics from Nair Hospital Dental College, Bombay University, in 1985. He achieved the title of Diplomate of the Indian Board of Orthodontics (D.I.B.O.) in 2000 and specialises in enhancing smiles through comprehensive dental care in Mumbai.
