Invisalign and braces are effective ways to treat teeth crookedness, gapped teeth, misalignments, bite issues, and overcrowding. However, this is not the end of achieving a straight smile. After the primary orthodontic treatment, you may need to replace the braces or clear aligners with a retainer. This appliance keeps the teeth in place and prevents them from shifting. In most cases, a dentist may recommend wearing the retainer for at least 12 hours daily for the first eight weeks. This is vital because your teeth are susceptible to shifting. After eight weeks, you can wear them only at night for 4 to 12 months.
What Are The Benefits Of Retainers?
Even though you may love your smile after braces and Invisalign, you need to implement one more step to allow your teeth to accept the new position. If you ignore using a retainer, your teeth will likely revert to their misaligned state. The biggest goal of wearing retainers is to prevent the newly aligned teeth from shifting. In addition, retainers act as the first line of defense against tongue thrusting. Some people have the habit of pushing their tongue forward when speaking or swallowing, which can affect their newly straightened teeth. With a retainer, you can prevent this bad habit that can ruin your oral health.
How to Take Care of Your Retainers
Having straight teeth is not the end if you want to achieve a straight and healthy smile. Good oral hygiene should be your priority, and this begins with cleaning your teeth and retainers. This prevents plaque and bacteria build-up. Cleaning your retainers may involve gently brushing and soaking them in a solution of warmth to kill bacteria. Be sure to keep your appliances away from heat sources since this can cause damage. Contact us and find out which type of retainer suits your oral needs.
Invisalign and braces are effective ways to treat teeth crookedness, gapped teeth, misalignments, bite issues, and overcrowding. However, this is not the end of achieving a straight smile. After the primary orthodontic treatment, you may need to replace the braces or clear aligners with a retainer. This appliance keeps the teeth in place and prevents them from shifting. In most cases, a dentist may recommend wearing the retainer for at least 12 hours daily for the first eight weeks. This is vital because your teeth are susceptible to shifting. After eight weeks, you can wear them only at night for 4 to 12 months.