Things You Should Know About Retainers After Braces
Why Do You Need Retainers After Braces?
You might wonder why you need to wear anything else after your braces come off. The answer is simple but super important. When braces move your teeth into new positions, the bone and tissues around your teeth need time to get used to these changes. Without retainers after braces, your teeth will naturally try to move back to where they used to be. This is called “relapse,” and it can undo all the hard work you and your orthodontist put into creating your best smile.
Think of it like this: if you build a sandcastle and then walk away, the waves will eventually wash it away. Retainers after braces work like a protective barrier, keeping your teeth in their new, correct positions while everything settles into place.
Different Types of Retainers After Braces
There are several types of retainers after braces, and your orthodontist will choose the best one for your specific needs.
Removable Retainers: These are the most common type of retainers after braces. They look similar to clear aligners and fit snugly over your teeth. You can take them out to eat, brush your teeth, and play sports. Many patients prefer removable retainers because they’re almost invisible when you wear them.
Wire Retainers: These retainers have a thin wire that goes across the front of your teeth, with a plastic or acrylic piece that sits against the roof of your mouth. While they’re more visible than clear retainers, they’re very effective at keeping your teeth in place.
Fixed Retainers: Sometimes called permanent retainers, these are thin wires that are bonded to the back of your teeth. You can’t remove them yourself, which means you can’t forget to wear them! These are often used for the lower front teeth, which tend to shift the most after braces.
How Long Do You Wear Retainers?
This is probably the question patients ask most often about retainers after braces. The answer varies for each person, but here’s what you can generally expect:
- First few months: You’ll likely need to wear your retainers after braces almost all the time, except when eating, drinking, or brushing your teeth.
- After six months: Many patients can switch to wearing their retainers only at night.
- Long-term: Some people need to wear retainers after braces a few nights per week for several years, or even indefinitely.
Remember, everyone’s mouth is different. Your orthodontist will give you specific instructions based on your individual treatment and how your teeth respond.
Taking Care of Your Retainers After Braces
Proper care of your retainers after braces is essential to keep them working well and lasting long. Here are some simple tips:
For Removable Retainers:
- Clean them daily with a soft toothbrush and mild soap
- Rinse them with cool water (hot water can warp them)
- Store them in their case when not wearing them
- Never wrap them in napkins or tissues (they might get thrown away!)
For Fixed Retainers:
- Brush and floss carefully around the wire
- Use floss threaders or special floss designed for braces and retainers
- Avoid hard, sticky foods that could damage the wire
What Happens If You Don’t Wear Your Retainers?
Skipping your retainers after braces can lead to disappointing results. Your teeth can start shifting within just a few days of not wearing your retainer. Some patients find that their retainer doesn’t fit properly after just a week of not wearing it. If significant shifting occurs, you might need additional orthodontic treatment to fix the problem.
Making Retainers After Braces Part of Your Routine
The key to success with retainers after braces is making them part of your daily routine. Here are some helpful tips:
- Set reminders on your phone to put in your retainer
- Keep your retainer case in the same place every day
- Clean your retainer at the same time you brush your teeth
- Bring your retainer case with you when you eat out
Protect Your Smile Now
Wearing retainers after braces might seem like a hassle at first, but remember why you’re doing it. You’ve invested time and effort into getting a beautiful, healthy smile. Retainers after braces protect that investment and ensure your smile stays beautiful for years to come.
If you have questions about retainers after braces or need to schedule a check-up, contact Orthodontic Specialist P.C. Our offices in Staten Island, NY, and Metuchen, NJ are here to support you throughout your entire orthodontic journey.