The Importance Of An Orthodontic Retainer For Teeth

Are your teeth misaligned and impacting your confidence? Or is your bite uneven? Yorkshire Dental Suite patients have multiple orthodontic procedures to choose from. Book your consultation now.

Your teeth straightening treatment doesn’t end when your braces are removed or you reach the final set of aligners in your plan. To protect your new smile, it is vital that you wear an orthodontic retainer.

What is an orthodontic retainer for teeth?

Retainers are a type of appliance designed to keep your teeth from shifting back out of alignment, while also helping the gums and jawbone to permanently settle into their new position. They are always fitted at the end of your procedure and custom made to fit your unique smile.

The different types of retainers

You have multiple types of retainers to choose from. Whether you would prefer something removable or fixed, you are able to pick a retainer that suits your lifestyle. Let’s go through your options.

• Hawley retainer: A clear plastic retainer with a thin metal wire attached to keep the appliance in place. Removable.
• Fixed retainer: Includes permanently bonding a wire to the back of the teeth, making it hidden from view. Non-removable.
• Essix retainer: A transparent plastic retainer that fits snugly over the entire arch of teeth (just like clear aligners). Removable.

Why are retainers important?

We understand that, for many, the idea of wearing retainers after completing months (or even years) of teeth straightening is tedious. However, the importance of this device cannot be downplayed.

1) Prevents orthodontic relapse

If you do not wear a retainer after completing treatment, your teeth will move back out of alignment. Why? As the jawbone and gums have not yet settled into their new position, a process which may take up to 12 months to complete, it means that teeth are still mobile. A retainer physically holds your teeth in place to stop this happening.

2) Supports good oral health

Straight teeth boast many benefits. Brushing and flossing becomes much easier, which minimises the risk of tooth decay as you are effectively removing food particles and bacteria, while clean gums protect against gum disease. Plus, a balanced bite helps to prevent enamel wear, chips and cracks, as chewing forces are evenly distributed.

3) Protects your investment

There’s no denying that orthodontic procedures are expensive. If your teeth begin to shift as a result of not wearing your retainer, you will need to purchase more aligners, have your braces fitted once again or even re-start treatment altogether. This increases your overall costs and could make the money you’ve already spent feel wasted.

How long should you wear a retainer after treatment?

The answer to this question will be provided by your orthodontist. Follow the instructions carefully to prevent orthodontic relapse and enjoy your beautiful new smile for as long as possible.

To give you a general idea, this is what the experts at Yorkshire Dental Suite recommend. Please note that this applies to removable retainers – fixed retainers cannot be removed, and do not rely on the patient remembering to wear the appliance.

1. Wearing your aligners 22 hours per day for the first 6 months
2. Then, wearing your retainers 8 – 10  hours every night for another 6 – 12 months
3. Before finally wearing your retainers every other night indefinitely

Conclusion:

Retainers are an important part of your overall teeth straightening journey. Rest assured, your dentist will discuss this part of your treatment with you during your initial consultation. If you’re ready to get started with your own journey, contact Yorkshire Dental Suite today.