The orthodontic process requires time and effort, as teeth do not shift into perfect alignment overnight. When wearing clear aligners, the timeline for optimal results can vary from patient to patient, but the average is 12-18 months. When finished with treatment, you may be excited to no longer have to wear your custom trays, but if you want to keep your teeth firmly in their new location, you’ll need to wear what is called a retainer. Read on to discover what this is and why your orthodontist recommends it.
What is a Retainer?
A retainer is an oral appliance that keeps newly aligned teeth in place, so they integrate with the bone and surrounding tissues.
Many retainer options are available, but if you straighten your teeth with clear aligners, your orthodontist will likely provide a clear and removable oral device. Its discreet look matches that of your aligners, so you can remain confident while entering the retention phase of treatment.
Why Is It Necessary to Wear a Retainer?
Teeth are prone to moving, which means they can shift back to their original location if you don’t have something holding them in place. A retainer, though, can prevent this problem.
If you want to know why your orthodontist remains adamant about you wearing this unique oral appliance, here are a few reasons:
- Your retainer will keep you from spending additional time and money going through the orthodontic straightening process again by keeping your teeth in place.
- Your retainer can help you save money in the long run. As an affordable addition to treatment, you can avoid the high price of orthodontic treatment (again) by continuing to wear this device as recommended by your orthodontist.
- Your retainer will help you enjoy a straighter and healthier smile for a lifetime. Since you will likely need to wear it for the rest of your life, it will keep your teeth from shifting, allowing you to enjoy the benefits of perfectly aligned teeth.
- You won’t have to wear it full-time, all the time. Initially, you’ll need to keep it in day and night; however, after a few months, your orthodontist may suggest switching to wearing it only while you sleep.
- Your retainer can help minimize grinding and clenching if you suffer from bruxism, especially if you previously had a misaligned bite that caused this habitual problem.
Don’t dismiss the importance of retainer wear. Following your orthodontist’s recommendation can help you take full advantage of all the benefits a straighter, healthier smile has to offer.
About Grand Dental – South Elgin
At Grand Dental – South Elgin, we have an experienced orthodontic team that can use clear aligners to address most orthodontic issues. When a patient finishes treatment, we can provide a custom retainer to ensure results last a lifetime. Designed to fit each patient’s smile accordingly, this unique oral device holds teeth in their new position. If you are preparing to enter the retention phase but have questions about what to expect, visit our website or call us at (847) 999-0935.