You might have to wear a retainer after treatment with orthodontics. Retainers are customized devices that are used to keep teeth in their new positions after teeth straightening treatments. They are typically prescribed to patients who have completed orthodontic treatments, to prevent their teeth from reverting to their old alignment. Having to deal with a retainer after dealing with orthodontics can be an inconvenience, but it is better than having to restart treatment with clear aligners or braces.
Anyone who has gone through orthodontics needs a retainer to keep their teeth in their new positions. The severity of the person’s misalignment often determines how long they will have to use retainers. The main types of retainers prescribed by dentists include the following.
These types of retainers are attached to the patient’s teeth after braces have been removed or after treatment with clear aligners has been completed. They ensure that the teeth stay in their new positions for the first few months following treatment. Bonded retainers are usually prescribed if the patient needs to have a retainer on at all times to prevent their teeth from shifting.
These are removable retainers that can be taken out for meals or oral hygiene. These devices should be worn according to a dentist’s recommendations. Failing to do so can lead to teeth going back to their old positions or otherwise shifting.
These are virtually impossible to notice when worn. These are clear options for people who have just finished treatment with clear aligners and would rather not have a conspicuous device on their teeth. Clear plastic retainers are designed to fit tightly on teeth, preventing any movement. They should be used as directed by a dentist.
People who are prescribed bonded retainers must wear them 24/7. The rules are different for those with removable devices. Each patient gets a unique set of instructions that addresses the behavior of their teeth.
Generally speaking, patients are advised to wear retainers all day and night for the first 6 months after their treatment. Once that period has passed, the dentist might reduce wear to only at night during sleep.
People who have had their teeth straightened will likely always need to use a retainer for the rest of their life to prevent their teeth from shifting. Some dentists prescribe permanent lingual retainers that sit in the back of the mouth for this purpose. These are permanently in place but are not visible when the wearer smiles. Failing to use a retainer as prescribed by a dentist can lead to having to start orthodontic treatment all over.
Orthodontic treatment, coupled with the use of a retainer, can get you a straight smile that lasts the rest of your life. Call or visit our Dallas clinic to set up an appointment with our dentist.
Request an appointment here: https://www.highlandsdentaldallas.com or call Highlands Family Dentistry at (214) 491-5362 for an appointment in our Dallas office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Orthodontics in Dallas, TX.
Occasionally, dentures need adjustments or repairs to ensure optimal comfort and effectiveness. Your mouth changes over time, and your dentures must change with it. Adjustments and repairs can help make that possible. These involve corrections to dentures to fix issues with fit, comfort, and minor damage. Read on to learn more about the repair process.Start…
Straightening teeth is easy and convenient with Invisalign®. This orthodontic treatment offers a modern alternative to traditional braces, appealing to those seeking comfort, convenience, and discreetness. While Invisalign is highly effective for many, it is not for everyone. Understanding who makes an ideal Invisalign candidate can help patients determine if this treatment aligns with their…
Regular check-up visits are ideal for denture wearers to protect their smile and help ensure a comfortable fit for their dentures at all times. In this review, we discuss why it is imperative for patients with dentures to visit their dentist regularly.There are many things that a patient can do at home to protect their…
Dentures are the way to go if you are looking for an affordable way to replace missing teeth. They typically fall under one of two categories: partial and complete dentures. Partial dentures are recommended when a person has lost only some of the teeth in a dental arch. Full dentures are typically recommended for those…