Retainers Carmichael is an essential part of orthodontic treatment. After months or even years of wearing braces to straighten teeth, it is important to maintain the progress made by wearing retainers. Retainers help keep teeth in their new position and prevent them from shifting back to their original position.
WHAT ARE RETAINERS?
Retainers are custom-made devices that fit snugly over the teeth. They are typically made of plastic or a combination of plastic and metal wires. Retainers hold the teeth in their new position to prevent them from shifting. There are two types of retainers: removable and fixed.
WHY ARE RETAINERS IMPORTANT?
Retainers are important because they help maintain the results achieved by braces. After braces are removed, teeth have a tendency to shift back to their original position. This is because the bone and tissue surrounding the teeth need time to adjust to their new position. Retainers help hold the teeth in place while this adjustment takes place, which is why they are a vital part of Carmel, Indiana orthodontics.
HOW OFTEN SHOULD RETAINERS BE WORN?
The frequency of retainer wear depends on the patient’s individual needs. In most cases, retainers are worn full-time for a few months after braces are removed. After that, patients are instructed to wear their retainers at night while they sleep. The length of time a patient needs to wear their retainers varies, but it is typically for an extended period of time.
WHAT HAPPENS IF RETAINERS ARE NOT WORN?
If retainers are not worn as directed, teeth may shift out of their new position. This can cause gaps to appear between teeth or teeth to become crooked again. In some cases, patients may need to wear braces again to correct the shift.
HOW DO I TAKE CARE OF MY RETAINERS?
To ensure that retainers last as long as possible, it is important to take care of them properly. Removable retainers should be cleaned daily with a toothbrush and toothpaste. They should also be soaked in a retainer cleaning solution regularly to remove bacteria and prevent odor. Fixed retainers should be cleaned with floss and a threader to remove food particles.
CONCLUSION
Retainers are an essential part of orthodontic treatment. They help maintain the results achieved by braces and prevent teeth from shifting back to their original position. Patients should follow their orthodontist’s instructions for wearing their retainers to ensure the best possible outcome.
