Whether you are thinking about orthodontic treatment, or are currently undergoing treatment, you may be wondering, “Will I have to wear retainers after treatment?“The answer is yes, and here’s why. Getting straight teeth is only half the battle; the other half is keeping them straight, and that’s where retainers come in.
Changes in tooth position are a natural and lifelong phenomenon, and to maintain the result created by your orthodontic treatment, retainers must be worn. While small changes after completion of treatment are normal, retainers prevent teeth from returning to their original positions.
Why are retainers needed?
Retainers are prescribed for two reasons: first, to allow the bone supporting the teeth to rebuild after the teeth have moved, and second, to maintain the new healthy positions of the teeth after active orthodontic treatment ends. Your body changes your whole life, and your teeth change too.
What types of retainers are there?
Yes, there are two general types of retainers: removable(placed and removed by the patient) and fixed (placed and removed by the orthodontist) . Both types of retainers hold the teeth in their new positions after completion of “active” orthodontic treatment. This allows the newly formed bone to mature around the teeth.
Two common removable retainers:
- Wire retainers are made of wire are made of wire and a plastic-like material. The part of the retainer that covers the roof of the mouth or goes behind the lower front teeth is made of plastic and wires help point the teeth in place.
- Clear retainers are clear trays made of a plastic-like material that are exact replicas of teeth. are clear trays made of a plastic-like material that are exact replicas of teeth.
The orthodontist will teach you how to insert, remove and care for a removable retainer.
Fixed retainer
It consists of a thin, customized wire that attaches to the tongue side of the upper or lower teeth. Discover all the orthodontic treatments we have.
How long should I wear retainers?
As long as you want to keep your teeth straight, many patients wear retainers every night for life. Wearing retainers becomes part of your oral hygiene routine: brush and floss before bedtime and wear retainers at night for a lifetime.
Orthodontics in Palma de Mallorca
When you choose an orthodontist for orthodontic treatment, you can be confident that you have selected a highly qualified specialist. Orthodontists are experts in orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics, properly aligned teeth and jaws, and possess the skills and experience to give you your best smile.
