Retainers are an essential part of orthodontic treatment, playing a crucial role in maintaining the results achieved after braces or Invisalign® treatment. Once the braces or clear aligners are removed, the teeth are in their newly aligned position, but they are still prone to shifting back over time. This is where retainers come into play. They help preserve the new tooth structure and prevent regression, ensuring that the efforts put into aligning the teeth are maintained in the long term. Retainers are typically worn at night after treatment, which is often sufficient to keep the teeth in their correct position. The night-time wear helps to preserve the alignment without being intrusive during the day.

There are several types of retainers available, depending on the patient’s needs and the nature of their orthodontic treatment. One of the most common types is the removable retainer. These retainers are custom-made to fit the shape of the patient’s teeth and can be taken out when eating, brushing, or flossing. While removable retainers are very effective in maintaining alignment, they rely on the patient’s commitment to wearing them as instructed. If a patient fails to wear their retainer regularly, there is a risk that their teeth could shift back to their original positions.

Another type of retainer is the bonded retainer, which is permanently attached to the back of the teeth. This type of retainer cannot be removed by the patient, making it a more reliable option for those who might forget or struggle with wearing a removable retainer consistently. Bonded retainers are usually placed behind the front teeth, where they are less noticeable and more discreet. Although bonded retainers are highly effective in preventing tooth movement, they do require regular dental checkups to ensure they remain intact and functional. Since they are permanent, the patient doesn’t have to worry about remembering to wear them, but they will need to maintain good oral hygiene to keep the bonded retainer clean and prevent plaque buildup around it.

In some cases, retainers are not just used for maintenance after braces or Invisalign® treatment but are also used during the active phase of orthodontic treatment. For example, retainers can be used in conjunction with braces to help mold and reshape the jaw and teeth. This is particularly true for patients with more complex orthodontic issues. In these cases, the retainers may need to be adjusted periodically to accommodate the changes in the patient’s teeth and jaw. Dr. Sheema Samarrae and the team at The Teal Umbrella work closely with patients to ensure that their retainers are adjusted correctly as part of their ongoing treatment plan. Through careful monitoring and reshaping, the retainers help guide the teeth into their optimal positions, contributing to a more functional and aesthetically pleasing smile.

The importance of retainers cannot be overstated. They provide long-term benefits that help protect the investment made in orthodontic treatment. Whether using a removable retainer or a bonded retainer, patients must understand the significance of wearing their retainers as instructed. Failing to do so can lead to undesirable shifts in tooth alignment, which could require additional treatment to correct.

At The Teal Umbrella, we are committed to providing exceptional care throughout every stage of your orthodontic journey. Dr. Sheema Samarrae and the rest of our experienced team ensure that each patient’s retainer needs are addressed with personalized care, whether that means providing a custom retainer after treatment or adjusting retainers during active treatment. Our goal is to help you maintain the beautiful, healthy smile you worked so hard to achieve.

If you would like to learn more about retainers or schedule an appointment with our team, please feel free to contact us. We are here to answer any questions you may have and guide you through the process of maintaining your perfect smile. If you’re ready to book an appointment, click here to get started.