Many patients underestimate the importance of wearing their retainers after their braces come off, but it is one of the most critical post care practices to keep your teeth in alignment. Why spend all that time, energy, and money to straighten your teeth when you don’t plan to keep them straightened after treatment?
What is a Retainer?
As the name implies, a retainer keeps teeth from moving back to the positions in which they started before treatment was administered; they “retain” your smile and bite. There are many different types of retainers—some are removable and some are permanent. Some retainers are made of plastic and metal (known as Hawley retainers) and others are all plastic or all metal. Some retainers can even be bonded to the back of your teeth!
What are the Different Types of Retainers?
Hawley Retainers
The Hawley retainer is one of the most common types of retainers. It is a removable retainer made of a combination of a metal wire that typically surrounds the six anterior teeth and is designed to keep your teeth in place. This retainer is made from impressions of your teeth so that it fits snugly and comfortably in the roof of your mouth, while the wire and acrylic framing keeps your teeth in an ideal position. The acrylic can also be personalized with a large number of colors or patterns.
Essix (Clear) Retainers
The Essix retainer is a transparent removable retainer that fits over the entire arch of your teeth. This clear or transparent retainer fits over the entire arch of teeth and is produced from a mold. Similar to Invisalign’s clear aligner trays, Essix retainers have no metal or wires. They can also be used to produce minor tooth movements and can be helpful in prevention of tooth wear due to tooth grinding at night.
Bonded Retainers
Bonded lingual retainers are cemented directly to the inside surface of your lower canines. At Wonder West Orthodontics, we encourage our patients with bonded lingual retainers to be careful with their bite as the bonding material may break due to incorrect biting and cause your teeth to shift. As with removable retainers, it is important to keep your bonded retainers clean. When brushing, make sure to carefully clean the inside of your lower teeth, as well as the wire itself.
How Long Do I Need to Wear a Retainer?
If you’ve been given a removable retainer by Dr. Timothy Foley, you may be wondering how long you need to wear it. It takes time for the tissues and bones around your teeth to reorganize and set into place after braces treatment.
The amount of time you’ll need to wear your retainer depends on your unique situation, but typically, retainers should be worn at least as long as the time you spent in braces. You might need to wear them full-time for a while, and then transition to wearing them only at night. Dr. Timothy Foley will have a treatment plan especially for you, and if you stick to it, you’ll always have a straight smile.
Why Do I Need to Wear a Retainer?
Nothing is forever (at least without retainers!)
Research has shown that there is no “permanent” position for your teeth to remain in. In fact, some studies say upward of 70% of patients will see a change to their bite and tooth alignment as they get older. This applies to people who have had orthodontic treatment and those who have not. Of course, some people’s teeth never seem to shift—you can consider them the lucky ones, as most people’s teeth do.
And this is precisely where retainers come in. The only way to ensure your teeth stay in alignment long-term is by wearing your retainers. If you have any questions about retainers or your treatment plan, please ask any member of our London, ON staff.
What Do Orthodontist Mean by the Retention Phase?
The retention phase of orthodontic treatment begins when the patient’s braces are removed. Retainers are worn full time, except while eating. Retainers should also be removed before brushing your teeth.
Still Have Questions?
If you have any questions about the retainers we offer or to learn more about post-orthodontic treatment, please feel free to contact us or visit our London, ON office and we will be happy to answer any of your questions!